Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH) is a parastatal organization with the responsibility of co-ordinating and promoting research and technology development activities in the country. It is the chief advisor to the Government on all matters pertaining to science and technology and their application to the socio-economic development of the country. Established by Act of Parliament No. 7 of 1986 as a successor to the Tanzania National Scientific Research Council, COSTECH became operational in 1988. The Act provides for a structural framework of the Commission, which brings together, the top leadership of the scientific and technological institutions in the country under one forum. Thus the Commission maintains a system of collaboration, consultation and cooperation with parties within Tanzania whose functions relate to the development and application of science and technology. In view of this all major national research and development institutes are affiliated to COSTECH.