Independent National Electoral Commission Prepares for Zanzibar Voter Registration Update

NEC Officials Visit Training Programs for Registration Personnel

[su_dropcap style=”flat” size=”5″]I[/su_dropcap]n advance of the sixth phase of the Permanent Register of Voters (PRV) enhancement project in Zanzibar, the Independent National Electoral Commission (NEC) is conducting training programmes for Assistant Writers and Biometric Equipment Operators. On 4 October 2024, Hon. Magdalena Rwebangira, a member of the NEC, undertook a site visit to the training programme in the South district, South Unguja region.

Training Focus and Objectives

The objective of the training programme is to provide participants with the requisite knowledge and skills to enable them to perform their voter registration duties in an effective manner. The training programme encompasses instruction on voter registration procedures, utilisation of biometric equipment, and data management techniques.

Project Scope and Timeline

The PRV improvement project will encompass five regions of Zanzibar. The updating of the register will commence on 7 October 2024 and conclude on 13 October 2024. Registration stations will be accessible from 2:00 p.m. each day.

NEC’s Commitment to Transparency and Inclusivity

The NEC is dedicated to guaranteeing a transparent and inclusive voter registration process. The training of personnel responsible for voter registration is a pivotal element in the attainment of this objective.

Personnel who have received adequate training will be able to assist citizens in verifying and updating their voter information in an accurate and efficient manner.

Additional NEC Official Visits to Training Programs

In addition to the Honourable Rwebangira’s visit, other NEC officials have also conducted site visits to training programmes in various regions of Zanzibar. Hon. Judge Appeal (Retired) Mbarouk Salim Mbarouk undertook a visit to training programmes in Wete District and Micheweni North Pemba Region. Honourable Ambassador Omar Ramadhan Mapuri undertook a visit to a training programme in Chake Chake District, South Pemba Region.

Collaborative Efforts for Successful Voter Registration

The Independent National Electoral Commission (NEC) is engaged in close collaboration with a diverse array of stakeholders, including political parties and civil society organisations, with the objective of ensuring the success of the voter registration update. The Commission is dedicated to furnishing all participants in the process with transparent directives and assistance.

Political Parties

The NEC is consulting with political parties to gather their input and address their concerns.
The Commission is providing training and resources to party agents to enable them to effectively participate in the registration process.
The NEC is encouraging political parties to mobilize their supporters to register and participate in the elections.

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)

The NEC is partnering with CSOs to conduct voter education campaigns and raise awareness about the importance of voter registration.
CSOs are assisting in monitoring the registration process and reporting any irregularities.
The NEC is providing support to CSOs to enable them to effectively carry out their voter registration activities.

Other Stakeholders

The NEC is collaborating with government agencies, media organisations, and community leaders to disseminate information about voter registration.
The Commission is working with traditional and religious leaders to encourage their followers to register and participate in the elections.
The NEC is engaging with international partners to share best practices and seek technical assistance.

Clear Guidelines and Support

The NEC is dedicated to the provision of transparent directives and assistance to all individuals engaged in the voter registration procedure. The Commission has developed comprehensive manuals and training materials for personnel engaged in the registration process. Furthermore, the NEC is providing technical assistance to guarantee the optimal functionality of the registration equipment. The Commission is establishing a dedicated hotline and online portal for citizens to access information and report any issues or concerns.

The NEC’s objective is to foster a conducive environment for voter registration and ensure that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to participate in the electoral process. This will be achieved by working collaboratively with stakeholders and providing clear guidelines and support.

Tanzania Media