Full name: Tanzania Electrical, Mechanical and Electronics Services Agency.
Legal status / Established: An executive government agency established in 2005 under an Establishment Order.
Parent ministry: It falls under the Ministry of Works, Transport & Communications (or a similarly named organ).
What TEMESA Does
TEMESA has a range of functions, focused on engineering, maintenance, and transport/ferry services. Key roles include:
Engineering services
Handling electrical, mechanical, and electronics maintenance and repair work for government vehicles and equipment.
Operating workshops across Tanzania for servicing government vehicles.
Ferry operations (Vivuko)
Managing ferries and boats for transport across water bodies as part of its service portfolio.
Equipment hiring and consultancy/advisory services
Providing technical advice and consultancy in its fields of specialty.
Hiring out equipment and mechanical tools.
Regional presence
Regional offices and multiple workshops, along with ferry crossing points spread around the country.
Strategy, Mission & Governance
Mission / Vision: The agency’s slogan is “Huduma Bora kwa Fursa za Maendeleo,” which translates to offering quality services for development opportunities.
Governance structure:
Overseen by a Board of Advisors.
Directorates include Technical & Maintenance, Workshops, and Ferry Operations.
Support units include Procurement, Finance, Human Resources, and ICT.
Challenges and Issues
TEMESA has been facing several operational and financial challenges:
Financial strain
Large debts and delayed payments. Some government institutions owe TEMESA, while TEMESA also owes suppliers for spare parts.
Cash-flow problems caused by delayed payments from clients such as government departments and councils.
Operational inefficiencies
Backlogs in vehicle maintenance.
Outdated technical skills compared to modern vehicle technology, requiring training and upgrades.
Institutional ambiguity
Uncertainty over whether TEMESA should function as a publicly funded service agency or as a commercially driven entity.
Recent Reforms & Developments
To address these issues, TEMESA has initiated reforms:
Training programs
Technicians are being trained to handle modern engine and gearbox systems.
Partnerships with institutions such as the National Institute of Transport for specialized training.
Payment model change
Moving to a pre-paid payment model for services to avoid accumulation of debt.
Digital maintenance tracking system
Introduction of a new system to register all government vehicles and track repairs nationwide.
Operational reform
Government-led reforms aimed at improving efficiency, clarifying TEMESA’s role, and strengthening financial discipline.
Significance & Impact
TEMESA plays a critical role in maintaining government vehicle fleets, which supports delivery of public services.
Its ferry operations are vital for connectivity in regions divided by rivers and lakes.
Its work extends the lifespan of government assets, leading to cost savings and greater service reliability.