Strengthening Border Security: Commissioner General Dr. Anna Makakala’s Visit to MUTUKULA OSBP

CGI’s Mission to Mutukula Border: Enhancing Border Security for Better Immigration Management

On 11 October 2024, the Commissioner General of Immigration (CGI), Dr. Anna Makakala, undertook a significant working visit to the joint border centre Mutukula One Stop Border Post (OSBP), situated in Misenyi District, Kagera Region. This visit serves to illustrate the ongoing efforts to enhance border security and ensure the effective management of immigration processes.

Engaging with Border Personnel

During her visit, Dr. Makakala engaged with officers, soldiers, and other employees from various government institutions whose duties were based at the border. She underscored the significance of adherence to orders, fortitude, and exemplary conduct in the execution of their duties. Dr. Makakala emphasised the pivotal role these personnel play in safeguarding the border and ensuring national security. She encouraged them to engage in collaborative work and to adhere to the highest standards of conduct.

Emphasis on Resource Management and Anti-Corruption

Furthermore, Dr. Makakala highlighted the necessity for the effective management of government resources. She exhorted the officers to deploy these resources in an efficacious manner, with a view to stimulating development for the benefit of both the present and future generations. Furthermore, she emphasised the necessity of preventing corruption, which she defined as an obstacle to justice.

Dr. Makakala exhorted the officers to exemplify the core values of the immigration service, encapsulated in the motto “Love, Solidarity, Accountability, and Rejection of Corruption.”

Enhancing Patrols and Security Measures

In an internal working session with the immigration officers, Dr. Makakala advocated for intensified patrols and searches to regulate the influx of illegal immigrants. She underscored the necessity of fortifying national defense and security, particularly in the context of the imminent Local Government Elections and General Elections. The objective of Dr. Makakala’s directives is to guarantee the security of the border and the effective enforcement of immigration laws.

Introduction of Ward Immigration Officers

In order to reinforce the security measures already in place, Dr Makakala initiated the appointment of Ward Immigration Officers. It is anticipated that these officers will play a pivotal role in bolstering the defence and security apparatus at the local level.

Moreover, they will disseminate information regarding the “Know Your Neighbour” campaign, which seeks to foster community awareness and collaboration in the control of illegal immigration. It is anticipated that this initiative will result in a notable enhancement of national defence and security.

Accompanying Officials

Dr Makakala’s visit to the Kagera Region constituted part of a broader working visit. Accompanying her were several high-ranking officials, including:

• CI Anjela Shija: Commissioner of Immigration, Division of Residence Permits, Passports, and Visas.
• DCI Elizabeth Lukuwi: Deputy Commissioner of Immigration.
• DCI Joseph Mtenga: Head of the Division of Administration at Immigration Headquarters.
• Head of Planning Division: An official responsible for strategic planning within the immigration department.

In conclusion, the visit of Commissioner General Dr. Anna Makakala to the MUTUKULA OSBP serves to illustrate the ongoing endeavours to reinforce border security and enhance immigration management in Tanzania. Her remarks underscored the importance of professionalism, resource management, and anti-corruption measures, as well as the introduction of Ward Immigration Officers, which collectively represent a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges of illegal immigration and ensuring national security. It is imperative that the immigration department and other government institutions collaborate in order to achieve these goals and safeguard the nation’s borders.

Tanzania Media