Dodoma. The Chief Executive Officer of the Weights and Measures Agency (WMA), Mr Alban Kihulla, has briefed Members of Parliament on measures being implemented to ensure the accuracy of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders sold across the country.
Speaking before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Industry, Trade, Agriculture and Livestock on May 13, 2026, Mr Kihulla said the agency remained committed to enforcing accurate measurements across key sectors, particularly the energy industry.
The briefing formed part of a seminar outlining the responsibilities of the Ministry of Industry and Trade and its affiliated institutions.
Mr Kihulla urged consumers to remain vigilant when purchasing cooking gas.
He advised buyers to ensure cylinders are weighed at the point of sale before completing any transaction.
He warned that buying gas from vendors without weighing scales exposed consumers to the risk of receiving less gas than indicated on the cylinder label.
To help consumers understand cylinder specifications, Mr Kihulla explained the difference between “Net Weight” and “Gross Weight”.
He said Net Weight refers only to the amount of gas inside the cylinder, while Gross Weight combines the weight of the gas and the empty cylinder.
According to him, consumers can confirm accuracy by ensuring the total weight shown on the scale matches the combined Net Weight and tare weight of the cylinder. A lower reading indicates a shortage in supply.
Mr Kihulla also expressed concern over the growing practice of sending motorcycle riders, commonly known as bodaboda, to buy and transport cooking gas on behalf of customers.
He said the practice often leaves buyers uncertain about the actual quantity of gas received because they are absent during the weighing process.
“Consumers should avoid relying solely on routine purchases without verification,” he said.
Beyond LPG verification, Mr Kihulla said the WMA also verifies police speed radar guns to ensure motorists are not penalised using inaccurate equipment.
He encouraged members of the public to report suspected measurement irregularities to the agency for immediate action.
The agency also revealed plans to expand its verification services into the telecommunications sector.
Under the initiative, the WMA will audit the accuracy of internet data bundles and airtime minutes offered by telecom companies to ensure consumers receive the services they pay for.
The proposed expansion was highlighted during a video presentation showcasing the agency’s work in sectors including health, agriculture, minerals, water and construction.
