The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, has urged Tanzanians to remain united as the nation heads toward the upcoming General Elections.
Speaking on April 23, 2025, in Monduli District, Arusha Region, Dr. Biteko emphasized that national unity must prevail over political and religious divisions.
“I wish to see a Tanzania where no one divides us along religious or ethnic lines,” he said during a public address in Esilalei Village.
“Let us love one another, cooperate as a community, and when the time comes, choose our leaders fairly and peacefully.”
Dr. Biteko was in Monduli to officially inaugurate a vital water project in Esilalei Village. He commended the Ministry of Water and the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA) for their dedication in delivering a reliable and impactful project.
“This is a solid project,” he noted. “I congratulate RUWASA and the Ministry for their excellent work. By December this year, we expect to complete the second phase.”
Highlighting President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to grassroots development, Dr. Biteko stated, “The government under President Samia loves the people of Monduli and values their efforts in agriculture and livestock keeping. This water project is proof of that.”
He went on to affirm that President Samia sent him personally to ensure pastoral communities receive the support they need.
“Her goal is clear livestock keepers should be treated with the same dignity and opportunity as every other citizen.”
Dr. Biteko encouraged citizens to focus on productivity and utilize government-provided infrastructure. “What our people need are tools water, electricity, and roads. President Samia has vowed to provide them, and she is delivering.”
On the issue of rural electrification, Dr. Biteko revealed that all villages in Monduli have access to electricity, and of the 236 sub-villages, 72 have already been connected.
He assured residents that the remaining areas will be electrified after the General Elections. Responding to a request from local MP Freddy Lowassa regarding electric poles, he declared, “Starting this Thursday, you will see progress. Electricity will reach our people without conditions. In leadership, we are judged by our actions not our words.”
The Deputy Prime Minister also reflected on the enduring Union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar, calling it a rare global achievement.
“The 61-year Union is something special. Many countries have tried to unite and failed, yet Tanzania remains one peaceful and united nation. That is a blessing we must protect.”
Deputy Minister of Minerals, Dr. Steven Kiruswa, who was also present at the event, applauded the water project, underscoring its importance.
“Water is life,” he said. “Thanks to President Samia, even our livestock now have a dependable water source.”
In his remarks, Hon. Freddy Lowassa, MP for Monduli, expressed heartfelt appreciation to President Samia for addressing the district’s longstanding water challenge.
“For many years, water has been a major struggle for us,” he said. “This project is a game changer. Please extend our sincere gratitude to Her Excellency the President.”
RUWASA’s District Manager, Engineer Naville Msaki, explained that the Esilalei water project was designed in 2021 and is now 96% complete.
Once finished, it will provide clean water to 8,867 residents and 24,000 livestock. The project is expected to cost a total of TZS 2.7 billion.
