Jinsi ya Kuomba Uhamisho kwa Watumishi wa Umma, How to Apply for a Transfer as a Public Servant: In the Tanzanian public service sector, the process of transferring from one workplace to another is guided by specific regulations and procedures. Understanding these guidelines is crucial for public servants seeking to move for various personal or professional reasons. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the steps involved in applying for a transfer, as well as the types of transfers available.
1. Authorities Responsible for Transfers
According to the Public Service Act No. 8 of 2002 and its accompanying regulations, the authority to approve transfers lies with different officials depending on the nature of the transfer:
- Secretary-General of the President’s Office – Public Service Management: Handles transfers of all public servants.
- Secretary-General of the Prime Minister’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI): Oversees transfers between different councils outside a region.
- Regional Administrative Secretary: Manages transfers within councils of the same region.
- Council Director: Responsible for transfers within a single council.
2. Types of Transfers
There are two primary types of transfers for public servants:
a. Voluntary Transfers (Uhamisho wa Kuomba)
This type of transfer is initiated by the public servant. The process includes:
- Application Submission: The employee must submit a transfer request through their current supervisor to the Director of the Council or the relevant authority in the desired location.
- Supervisor’s Role: Supervisors are required to forward the application with their recommendations, without blocking the request unless there are valid reasons.
- Response from the Requested Location: The requested authority must respond to the applicant, explaining the availability of the position and the circumstances under which it became available.
- Special Considerations: Transfers requested for reasons such as following a spouse, preparing for retirement after serving outside one’s home region for ten years, or staying in one station for more than five years may include financial support for the transfer.
- Notification: Applicants will be informed of the decision through official letters from their employers. Responses are typically provided in July for applications submitted between January and June, and in January for those submitted between July and December.
b. Routine Transfers (Uhamisho wa Kawaida)
These are initiated by the employer or supervisor to improve work performance. The process includes:
- Evaluation of Vacancies: Before initiating a transfer, the authority must ensure that there is a vacancy in the desired location and that the transfer will not cause a staff shortage at the current station.
- Funding: Routine transfers are generally funded by the receiving council, including costs for relocating the employee’s belongings.
- Timeliness: Although transfers usually occur twice a year, routine transfers can happen at any time if they are necessary to maintain public service efficiency.
3. Important Considerations
- Submission of Transfer Requests: Employees should submit their transfer requests themselves or through their employers, preferably using EMS or registered mail to ensure traceability.
- Disciplinary Actions: Any employee found to have falsified documents, requested or received bribes, will face severe disciplinary actions, including legal proceedings.
- Reporting: Once a transfer is approved, the employee must report to their new station within 14 days of receiving the transfer letter.
Conclusion
Understanding the procedures for applying for a transfer within the Tanzanian public service is essential for any public servant considering a move. By following the outlined steps and adhering to the regulations, public servants can navigate the transfer process smoothly and ensure their applications are handled efficiently.
