Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) today, September 19, 2025 celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of advancing industrial quality, innovation, and efficiency in Tanzania and across Africa.
The milestone event drew government officials, industry leaders, and staff members who gathered to honour the Bureau’s enduring impact on standards and trade.
TBS Director General, Dr Ashura A. Katunzi, reflected on the organisation’s journey since its founding in 1975, when it operated with a modest team of 36 employees.
Today, the Bureau employs 900 professionals and has established itself as a regional benchmark for standardisation. Dr Katunzi credited this growth to the dedication of TBS staff, whose commitment has elevated the organisation to the forefront of quality assurance across the continent.
“Growth is not merely in numbers but in our unwavering commitment to quality. We have set benchmarks that resonate far beyond our borders,” Dr Katunzi said.
Veteran employees at the event recalled the nurturing and collaborative environment that has defined TBS over the decades, highlighting the organisation’s focus on both professional and personal development.
The Guest of Honour, Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Dr Hashil Abdallah, praised TBS’s role in shaping industrial standards in Tanzania and influencing practices across Africa and globally.
“TBS is not just a regulatory body; it is a beacon of excellence that influences industries worldwide,” he said.
Representing the Board Chairman, the Deputy Chair of the Board of Directors described the anniversary celebrations as a reflection of TBS’s critical role in Tanzania’s industrial landscape and its adherence to international best practices.
The Bureau’s longstanding collaboration with Sweden was also highlighted as a key factor in enhancing its capabilities and positioning Tanzanian products in European markets, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to global quality standards.
The anniversary programme, which will extend over the next two months, includes a series of events designed to engage both industry and community stakeholders. Among these is a marathon in Dar es Salaam aimed at promoting health while raising public awareness about the importance of standards in daily life. CEO of Showtime Events and Entertainment, which is coordinating the celebrations, said the Bureau’s enduring values of quality, excellence, and perseverance continue to guide its operations.
As TBS marks its golden jubilee, it stands as a testament to the power of standardisation in driving industrial growth. With a rich legacy and a vision for the future, the Bureau continues to shape Tanzania’s industrial landscape while maintaining its influence on the regional and global stage.
