Tanzania and the Republic of Korea have stepped up discussions on the implementation of the planned Rufiji Water Project, a major infrastructure initiative expected to significantly improve access to clean and reliable water for millions of residents in Dar es Salaam and neighbouring areas.
The talks, held in Dodoma on January 14, 2026, brought together Minister for Water Jumaa Aweso and the Republic of Korea’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Eun Ju Ahn.
The project forms part of Tanzania’s National Water Grid programme, under which water will be abstracted from the Rufiji River and transported to the country’s commercial capital, where demand continues to outstrip supply.
Once implemented, the Rufiji Water Project is expected to provide a long-term solution to recurring water shortages in Dar es Salaam, driven by rapid population growth, climate change and prolonged dry spells.
Government officials say the project will help stabilise supply and improve access to safe water for households, institutions and businesses.
Speaking during the discussions, Minister Aweso said the government was prioritising sustainable investments in the water sector to protect citizens from the effects of climate change, including drought and declining water sources.
He noted that the Rufiji project would strengthen water security and support economic activity in the city and surrounding areas.
Beyond water supply, the two sides also reviewed broader cooperation in clean water and sanitation services, water resources management, rainwater harvesting and new investment opportunities in the sector.
The meeting also highlighted progress in the Dar es Salaam Sewerage Improvement Project, a joint Tanzania–Korea initiative valued at about US$90 million.
The project, implemented by the Dar es Salaam Water Supply and Sanitation Authority (Dawasa), is expected to benefit around 1.8 million residents.
Under the project, the government is constructing a modern wastewater treatment plant at Buguruni, aimed at reducing waterborne diseases, improving environmental health and lowering the cost of sewerage services for city residents.
Ambassador Ahn commended the progress made in the water and sanitation sector and expressed satisfaction with the implementation of the Buguruni sewerage project.
She reaffirmed Korea’s commitment to supporting Tanzania’s efforts to expand access to safe water and sanitation services.
For many Dar es Salaam residents who continue to face water rationing and high costs from alternative sources, the Rufiji Water Project offers renewed hope for a more reliable and affordable water supply in the years ahead.