Sergeant Jane Mwambafula: A Dedicated Guardian of Safety and Security at UDSM

 By Zamda George, CMU 

Sergeant Jane Mwambafula, a dedicated officer at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Auxiliary Police, is a role model for women aspiring to join law enforcement. Her journey exemplifies how dedication, resilience and passion can lead to success in a traditionally male-dominated field. 

For many, a career in security and law enforcement is a calling—a deep sense of responsibility to protect and serve. For Sergeant Mwambafula, this calling was inspired by her late brother, a police officer in Tanzania’s national police force. 

“His dedication to duty motivated me to follow in his footsteps and commit my life to safeguarding others”, she says.

She joined the UDSM Auxiliary Police in 2006 as a Security Guard II, taking her first step into law enforcement. 

Sgt. Mwambafula has worked at various security posts across UDSM, reflecting the dynamic nature of her job. However, she has spent the most time as the Secretary to the Head of the Auxiliary Police Unit, where she coordinates security operations and ensures smooth communication within the department. 

Beyond administrative duties, she has held critical leadership positions, including serving as Head of the Special Security Unit at Magufuli Hostel, one of UDSM’s largest student residences, accommodating over 3,800 students. Ensuring safety in such a highly populated environment was challenging, but she embraced it wholeheartedly. 

“At Magufuli Hostel, I always advocated for self-security first and encouraged students to report any crime or suspicious activity. Security is not just the job of police officers; it is everyone’s responsibility,” she explains. 

She strongly believes that peace begins with individuals before extending to institutions and is strengthened through collaboration with the community (wananchi). 

A determined path to law enforcement 

Born in Mbeya region, Tanzania, Sgt. Mwambafula completed her secondary education at Meta Secondary School in Mbeya, before pursuing training in secretarial studies and computer skills. However, her true passion lay in security and safety. 

After joining UDSM Auxiliary Police in 2006, her commitment, continuous training and an unwavering work ethic, propelled her up the ranks, eventually promoted to Sergeant, signified by three V insignia—a mark of her experience and leadership. 

“I love computer training, and I love being a policewoman. In my current role, I get to do both,” she shares with pride. 

Her advancement was made possible by rigorous training at both the Corporal and Sergeant levels, equipping her with skills in security management, leadership and operational strategy. From patrol duties to administrative leadership, she has played a key role in strengthening campus security at UDSM. 

A woman in uniform: strength, pride and purpose 

For Sgt. Mwambafula, wearing a police uniform is more than just attire—it is a symbol of duty and honour. However, she acknowledges that her profession is often misunderstood. 

“When people see my uniform, they assume I work for immigration. But I take pride in educating them about the role of the Auxiliary Police. The uniform commands respect, and with that comes the responsibility to uphold integrity and professionalism,” she explains proudly. 

Her discipline and commitment have earned her the admiration of colleagues, students and staff members at UDSM. 

Balancing career and family 

Outside her demanding job, Sgt. Mwambafula is a proud mother of three. While none of her children have pursued law enforcement, she is particularly proud of her first-born daughter, who has earned a university degree—an achievement that Sgt. Mwambafula herself did not attain but worked tirelessly to ensure for her child. 

“I am grateful to God. Despite only having a secondary school education, my daughter has graduated with a Bachelor’s degree. That alone is a great success for me as a mother,” she shares happily. 

Her husband, though in a different profession, fully supports her work. “He is always concerned for my safety, but once he checks in and sees that I am fine, he is at ease. He respects my job and the dedication it requires.” 

Encouraging women to join law enforcement 

Sgt. Mwambafula firmly believes that security is a career for everyone, not just men. What advice does she have for women considering law enforcement? 

“Security work is about dedication, discipline, and service. It requires hard work, but it is rewarding. Women should never feel discouraged from joining the force. We need more women in uniform because security matters to everyone,” she says with conviction. 

Through her resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment, Sgt. Jane Mwambafula has not only helped secure the University of Dar es Salaam but has also inspired many young women to consider careers in law enforcement. 

Her journey from Security Guard to Sergeant proves that with determination, continuous training and a passion for service, women can excel and lead in the security sector. 

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, Sgt. Mwambafula’s story stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, leadership and commitment to public safety. She is not just a guardian of security—she is an inspiration for the next generation of women in law enforcement.