When the day break and the sun rise over the semi-arid plains of the Simiyu Region in northern Tanzania, it signals a new day. It also marks a new chapter, one which is filled with vision, resilience and shared hope.
On June 19th, 2025, a historic step marked when President of the United Republic of Tanzania Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan laid the foundation stone for one of Tanzania’s most ambitious water projects: the Simiyu Climate Resilient Water Supply Project.
Simiyu project is not only just an engineering achievement, but also it is a story of solidarity. Worth approximately TZS 440 billion, this initiative represents global partnership and national determination, initiated to face the harsh realities of climate change which it’s a worldwide problem.
It is made possible through the generosity of three key contributors: the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the German Development Bank (KfW), and the people of Simiyu.
The Green Climate Fund, the world’s largest climate-focused financing body, has contributed an impressive EUR 102.7 million.
The injected fund is more than just a financial investment; it is a promise to the people of Simiyu and Tanzania in general that their struggles have not gone unnoticed.
GCF’s involvement shows a strong vote of confidence in Tanzania’s climate action efforts. It has to be noted that GCF accelerates transformative climate action in developing countries through a country-owned partnership approach and use of flexible financing solutions and climate investment expertise
Germany, through KfW has once again be a strong supporter of development to Tanzania by committing EUR 26.1 million.
This support brings funding along with vital technical knowledge and experience. For decades, KfW has helped Tanzania and other Africa countries build sustainable infrastructure and a good case is Simiyu which now stands as a shining example of this long-term friendship.
The Government of Tanzania, led by President Dr. Samia, has invested EUR 40.7 million shillings from withing the country.
This clearly shows national commitment and the political will to cope with the changing environment. Perhaps the most touching contribution comes from the resident of Simiyu, who offered an in-kind contribution valued at EUR 1.5 million.
Their involvement reflects support, commitment and belief in the project which is going to change their future forever.
Simiyu region, was established in 2012. It’s a very new region Tanzania. So far it has faced the adverse weather changes, including rising temperatures, unreliable rainfall, and floods.
These challenges have eroded water sources, strained agriculture, and pressure on public services, of them health systems, and school.
Access to clean water remains a critical issue due to weather changes, in which the project is going to address, among others.
The project, Simiyu Climate Resilient Water Supply Project is designed to serve all five districts of the region, named Busega, Bariadi, Itilima, Maswa, and Meatu in which a number of over 450 hundred thousand presidents are going to benefit.
Once fully implemented and operational, clean water will be connected and flow into homes, public facilities such as schools, clinics, and to farmers in their daily routines in the farms, changing daily life and the region's future.
The project will provide treated water 69.4 daily, which is above current demand, giving Simiyu the ability to grow and adapt to climate challenges.
The project is scheduled for November 25, 2023, and is set to finish by November 2025 according to the contract. Progress which is an evidence of work done, it’s a sure signal that the government will change the life of people in the area.
The work to tap water from source which is lake Victoria is underway, along with over 460 kilometers of pipelines. Seven high-capacity reservoirs are being built, and a modern treatment plant is about to finish.
The plant will purify nearly 70,000,000 litres of water daily. All villages on both sides of the main pipe 24 kilometers will also be beneficiaries.
However, the true impact of this project extends beyond just pipes and pumps. It serves as a model for global climate resilience.
It demonstrates what can be achieved when careful planning, inclusive design, international cooperation, strong leadership and community engagement linked in work.
With access to reliable water, public health will improve, food security will increase, and economic opportunities will emerge. Its going to have a diverse impact to the community.
To the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the Government of Germany through KfW and the people of Simiyu, the United Republic Tanzania expresses gratitude.
Contributions from these partners have turned a climate challenge into a success remarkable story. Their belief in Tanzania’s potential has opened doors to the futures that were once limited by scarcity.
President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, the nation is deeply thankful. Vision, commitment, and tireless diplomacy have made this dream a reality.
This has brought Tanzania closer to its promise under the CCM 2020–2025 Manifesto, aiming for 85% of rural and 95% of urban Tanzanians to access safe water by 2025.
As the project continues, one truth stands out: this is more than just a water system. It represents what the world can achieve when compassion meets dedication.
The story of Simiyu is no longer one of hardship, it is now one of hope, resilience and unstoppable momentum.
As the sun rises for another day tomorrow, it will shine on pipes that carry more than water. It will shine on dignity, potential and the unwavering spirit of a community that dared to dream bigger and bigger in Tanzania.
Pictured: President of the United Republic of Tanzania Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan during laying the foundation stone for Simiyu Project, with development partners in Simiyu.