Tanzania has accelerated the implementation of large-scale water projects as part of a long-term strategy to address persistent water shortages driven by climate change, Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has said.
Speaking on December 29, 2025, after inspecting water production and distribution systems at Ruvu Chini in the Coast Region, Dr Nchemba said the government began investing in major water infrastructure more than three years ago after identifying climate change as a serious and growing threat to the country’s water security.
He said prolonged dry spells, unpredictable rainfall and rapid urban population growth had forced the government to move away from short-term interventions and instead focus on sustainable, high-capacity water projects capable of meeting present and future demand.
“The impacts of climate change on the water sector were identified early. That is why the government put in place long-term plans to construct large-scale water projects that can offer lasting solutions and reliable services to citizens,” Dr Nchemba said.
Key projects include the Kidunda Dam and the Kimbiji–Mtera water scheme, which are expected to significantly improve water supply to Dar es Salaam and neighbouring areas while strengthening resilience during droughts.
During the inspection tour, the Prime Minister also visited the Ruvu River water source, where the Dar es Salaam Water Supply and Sanitation Authority (DAWASA) outlined measures being taken to boost production and improve service delivery.
DAWASA Chief Executive Officer Mkama Bwire said the speedy completion of the Kidunda Dam is critical to reducing the city’s widening water supply deficit.
Once completed, the dam will increase daily water production from 270 million litres to 360 million litres.
“The dam will allow us to store water efficiently and ensure a stable supply during periods of high demand or low river flow,” Mr Bwire said.
He noted that although water levels in the Ruvu River have improved compared to previous years, the lack of adequate storage means substantial volumes of water are lost.
Currently, DAWASA abstracts about 5,000 litres per second, while much of the remaining water flows unused into the ocean.
Mr Bwire added that the second phase of the Kimbiji–Mtera water project is progressing, with the aim of expanding water sources and reducing dependence on groundwater, particularly when other sources face operational challenges.
The Prime Minister’s visit comes amid complaints from residents in several parts of Dar es Salaam over shortages of clean and safe water.
Dr Nchemba reassured the public that the government is committed to fast-tracking strategic water projects to improve service reliability and protect citizens from the growing effects of climate change.
“These investments are designed to secure water for households, industries and the economy at large, while safeguarding the country against future climate-related risks,” he said.