Adeladius Makwega
President’s Office – National Archives of Tanzania, DODOMA
There are things whose value cannot be measured in monetary terms. They exist in carefully preserved documents, systematically arranged files, historical photographs, and records that, even after decades have passed, still have the power to tell the story of a nation.
These are the National Archives.
They are records of decisions, events, plans, policies, and various activities that have contributed to shaping the nation into what it is today. Within these records lies a history that cannot be recreated, and information which, if lost, would represent an irreplaceable part of the nation’s heritage.
Recognising this importance, the Director of the National Archives of Tanzania, Mr. Firimin Msiangi, on 10 September 2026, held a working meeting with Heads of Departments and Units aimed at strengthening the implementation of the Department’s responsibilities and advancing its vision:
“Ensuring proper preservation of National Archives.”
The meeting was not merely an ordinary gathering of government officials. It was part of a broader journey to ensure that every record of value to the Government and the nation is protected, properly preserved, and made accessible whenever required.
In an era where technology has transformed the way information is created, managed, preserved, and accessed, archival preservation can no longer rely solely on traditional methods.
Mr. Msiangi emphasised the importance of using technology in records management and preservation, including accelerating the process of digitisation of records.
This initiative is intended to make information more easily accessible, reduce reliance on paper records, and strengthen the protection of information against risks that could result in the loss or deterioration of important records.
But behind every digital system lies an important question: Are these records safe?
Mr. Msiangi addressed this question, stating:
“That is why the issue of information security and backup systems has been given significant attention. Digital records must be protected through robust systems to ensure that critical information cannot be lost as a result of system failures, disasters, or other technological challenges.”
The meeting also placed emphasis on ensuring that records are properly received, classified, organised, preserved, and made available in accordance with established procedures. This means that the journey of a record does not begin when it is placed in a cabinet or storage facility.
“It begins with proper management from the moment a record is created, followed by classification, preservation, protection, and ultimately ensuring its availability whenever it is required.”
Mr. Msiangi further underscored the importance of the institution’s vision, stating:
“From this perspective, proper preservation is not simply about having buildings and storage facilities. It is about having a robust system that brings together people, technology, infrastructure, legislation, regulations, and procedures. Records may have immense value, but without appropriate conditions for their preservation, that value can be placed at risk.”
The meeting also highlighted the importance of improving archival infrastructure and strengthening the security of records. At the same time, emphasis was placed on building the capacity of staff through training and skills development that respond to technological changes and the modern requirements of records management.
In this regard, a skilled and competent workforce is an essential part of protecting the nation’s history.
The vision of “Ensuring proper preservation of National Archives” is not merely a statement. Mr. Msiangi explained that:
“It is a call to ensure that the history of the nation is protected according to the standards it deserves. It is about ensuring that records which today may appear to be ordinary files, papers, or routine information remain tomorrow as important evidence for the Government, researchers, historians, and future generations.”
This is why Mr. Msiangi also emphasised the importance of conducting regular monitoring and evaluation, in order to identify challenges at an early stage, assess implementation, and take appropriate corrective and improvement measures.
Ultimately, archival preservation is about more than keeping papers safe. It is about protecting the memory of the nation.
It is about ensuring that yesterday’s decisions can be understood today. It is about enabling the Government to access accurate information whenever it is needed. It is about preserving evidence of the nation’s journey. Above all, it is about ensuring that future generations do not grow up without knowing where they came from.
From this perspective, the achievement of this vision depends on a system that embraces advanced technology, improved infrastructure, competent and professional staff, strong security systems, and effective management of institutional resources.
Because a nation that fails to protect its records places part of its history at risk.
But a nation that properly preserves its archives protects its history, strengthens present-day governance, and leaves a valuable legacy for future generations.
And this is where the true meaning of the Department’s vision lies:
“ENSURING PROPER PRESERVATION OF NATIONAL ARCHIVES.”
Wishing you a wonderful day.
Email: makwadeladius@gmail.com
Tel: 0717 649 257
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