The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has received a USD 8 million grant from the Korea Environmental Industry and Technology Institute (KEITI) to establish a Smart Water Management System at the Iringa Water Authority (IRUWASA).
This initiative underscores the robust partnership between Tanzania and South Korea, fostered under the leadership of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
IRUWASA will be the first water authority in Tanzania to adopt this innovative system, marking a milestone in the country's water management sector.
Implementing the Smart Water Management System is expected to significantly enhance efficiency in reducing water losses, bolstering revenue collection, and improving water service delivery.
Moreover, the project aims to enhance sanitation services, including wastewater management and treatment, contributing to environmental conservation and public health.
In a bid to further solidify ties between the two nations, Tanzania's Minister for Water, Jumaa Aweso, visited South Korea and engaged with leaders of the EXIM Bank of Korea.
The bank has committed a total of USD 248.3 million towards wastewater projects in Tanzania, with funds allocated as follows: USD 90 million for Dar es Salaam, USD 70 million for Dodoma, and USD 88.3 million for Iringa.
EXIM Bank's Vice President reaffirmed South Korea's commitment to supporting Tanzania's water sector through the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) and other funding mechanisms. This partnership underscores South Korea's pivotal role in advancing Tanzania's water infrastructure.
Minister Aweso's visit also fostered collaboration with key stakeholders such as K-Water and other South Korean companies. These partnerships are expected to enhance capacity-building efforts for Tanzanian water institutions and personnel, as well as facilitate the development of new projects and resource mobilization.
The partnership between Tanzania and South Korea illustrates how international cooperation can effectively address critical infrastructure needs. South Korea's financial and technological support showcases a commitment to fostering sustainable development in Tanzania’s water and sanitation sectors.
The adoption of a Smart Water Management System in Iringa could serve as a model for other regions in Tanzania, offering scalable solutions to improve water service delivery and resource efficiency.
Additionally, the funding commitments for wastewater projects in major regions highlight a holistic approach to water management, addressing both supply and waste treatment.
Minister Aweso’s efforts to engage South Korean stakeholders demonstrate proactive diplomacy, which is critical for unlocking further investments and fostering capacity-building initiatives.
This collaboration not only benefits Tanzania’s water sector but also strengthens bilateral relations, paving the way for future partnerships in other critical areas.
By emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and capacity building, this partnership sets a positive precedent for other nations aiming to leverage international collaboration for development.