Dar es Salaam, February 7, 2025—Residents of Kinyerezi, Tabata, and Ukonga are set to benefit from a significant improvement in their water supply, as the Dar es Salaam Water and Sewerage Authority (DAWASA) has announced the commencement of clean water distribution starting February 20, 2025.
This development follows the completion of the Bangulo Water Project, a landmark initiative valued at 36.8 billion Tanzanian shillings, which is expected to serve over 450,000 residents. The project includes the construction of a large water storage tank with a capacity of nine million liters and the installation of a 108-kilometer pipeline network.
During a tour with media representatives, DAWASA’s Acting CEO, Mkama Bwire, emphasized the project’s final stages, stating, "The remaining step involves connecting our electrical systems to initiate operations. Within the next two days, we will begin testing our equipment."
Bwire urged the community to remain patient as the authority prepares to release the water supply. His statement comes at a time when several areas, including Tabata, have experienced water shortages lasting up to three days, and in some instances, over five days.
Local resident Joseph John expressed frustration, stating, "We have been without water for three days; what we need is water, not just promises. We hope for a swift resolution." Another resident, Mariam Abdallah, reported that her neighborhood has faced water disruption for over a week, with supply often occurring during the night.
Bwire announced plans to connect the Ruvu Juu and Ruvu Chini water sources to enhance distribution efficiency. "We will need pumping systems to handle the elevation differences between areas. Once completed, water will flow more freely between locations," he explained.
DAWASA has encouraged customers to install water storage tanks to mitigate future shortages. “The ideal household should have a tank with a capacity of at least 5,000 liters to ensure a reliable water supply for up to three days in case of disruptions,” he added.
The Chairperson of the Tanzania Editors Forum (TEF), Deodatus Balile, commended DAWASA for their efforts in ensuring residents have access to essential water services. He also suggested that local government leaders be involved at water production sites to serve as ambassadors for their communities.
The TEF delegation began their tour at the Kidunda Dam project in Morogoro, which aims to alleviate water scarcity challenges in Dar es Salaam and the Coast Region. The dam is being constructed to store sufficient water for distribution, especially during times when production levels at Ruvu Juu and Ruvu Chini are low.
