By Charles Mkoka
In a
significant boost to Tanzania’s water infrastructure, the National Water Fund
(NWF) has disbursed TZS 5.3 billion in loans to water authorities across the
country, supporting the completion of 354 water supply and sanitation projects.
The
initiatives, implemented under the Sixth Phase Government, have expanded access
to clean water for millions, addressing critical needs in both urban and rural
areas.
The funds
have been disbursed through the NWF’s national water loan facility strategy,
designed to provide affordable loans for large-scale water projects which enables
water authorities to tackle complex infrastructure requirements, further
strengthening their capacity to deliver clean water to underserved regions.
"The
new loan facility is a vital step in empowering water authorities to meet the
growing demands for clean water in our communities," Executive Director of
NWF Mr. Haji Nandule briefed the media in Dar es Salaam.
Organized
by the Office of the Treasury Registrar, the briefing brought together editors
from key Tanzanian media outlets, providing insight into the NWF's impact since
the Sixth Phase Government took office.
Nandule
highlighted that, in addition to water supply projects, the NWF has implemented
104 conservation projects across the country.
"These
projects are crucial for protecting our vital water sources and include
initiatives like reforestation and riverbank stabilization to ensure
sustainable access to clean water," he emphasized.
Prosper
Buchafwe, Director of Policy and Planning at the Ministry of Water, reinforced
the government’s commitment to safeguarding water infrastructure.
"Monitoring
and preventing water loss or misuse remain top priorities, as they are
essential to providing consistent water services to Tanzanians," he
remarked, highlighting the ongoing efforts to maintain the integrity of the
nation’s water systems.
Speaking
on behalf of the Editors Forum of Tanzania (TEF), Chairman Deudatus Balile
expressed the media’s commitment to raising public awareness about the NWF’s
work.
"The
recent briefing has given us a clearer understanding of the NWF’s role,
allowing us to communicate its impact effectively. It is our duty to inform the
public about these crucial initiatives that reduce water scarcity and support
national development," he noted.
The NWF’s
achievements under the Sixth Phase Government demonstrate a balanced approach
to addressing Tanzania’s water challenges, combining clean water access with
robust conservation measures.
The
progress underscores the government's dedication to sustainable water
management and highlights the essential role of the media in advancing public
understanding of these vital efforts.