Abstract

Effective administration of measurements is essential for fair trade, consumer protection, and economic integrity. This is achieved through a legal metrology system, which mandates the verification and proper use of measuring instruments and the inspection of pre-packaged commodities to ensure accuracy and consistency in the market. In Tanzania, the Weights and Measures Agency (WMA) plays a central role in regulating weights and measures across various sectors. This study examines the historical development of legal metrology in Tanzania and evaluates the performance and sustainability of WMA in terms of operational efficiency, institutional capacity, financial viability, and responsiveness to emerging technological and regulatory demands. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, including questionnaires, interviews, and review of relevant legislations, documents and performance reports. Data analysis highlights WMA’s key achievements and challenges. While the MWA has made progress in service delivery and compliance enforcement in regulating traditional trade measurements, WMA continues to face constraints in resource mobilization, digital transformation, and institutional resilience. The study identifies opportunities for long-term sustainability through digital innovation, public-private partnerships, workforce development, and stronger stakeholder engagement. The study concludes with strategic recommendations aimed at strengthening WMA’s capacity to function as a sustainable and adaptive legal metrology institution in Tanzania’s dynamic business and trading environments.

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