The Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) in Morogoro Region has issued a stern warning against human activities that threaten the safety of Mindu Dam, the main source of water for Morogoro Municipality, saying such actions put public health and development at serious risk.
The party said continued illegal activities, including unregulated mining and the discharge of hazardous chemicals into water sources, are undermining national efforts to protect the environment and ensure water security.
CCM Morogoro Regional Chairman, Engineer Joseph Masunga, issued the warning during an inspection tour of water sources and water projects in Morogoro Municipality.
He said Mindu Dam supplies water to more than 80 percent of the municipality’s residents, making its protection a matter of national and public interest.
Mr Masunga said the ongoing destruction around the dam violates national environmental and water protection policies.
He stressed that strict legal and administrative measures will be taken against individuals found engaging in activities that endanger the dam.
He said safeguarding Mindu Dam is a shared responsibility, as its degradation would have far-reaching consequences on health, economic activities and social development in the region.
He added that water insecurity would reverse development gains and increase the cost of service delivery.
During the visit, officials from water authorities outlined measures being taken to improve efficiency and protect water resources.
Morogoro Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Authority (MORUWASA) Director, Mr Sais Kyejo, said the authority is introducing a digital system to detect water loss within the distribution network. He said the system will help identify leakages early and improve monitoring of water flows.
Mr Kyejo said the initiative will be implemented alongside major rehabilitation works on ageing water infrastructure.
He said the measures aim to reduce water loss, improve service reliability and protect water resources from pollution and unsustainable use.
Meanwhile, Morogoro Regional Manager of the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA), Engineer Sospeter Lutonja, said the region has currently achieved 79 percent access to clean and safe water.
He said ongoing water projects are expected to raise coverage to 92 percent upon completion. The projects focus on developing new water sources, improving rural water supply infrastructure and reducing the distance residents travel to access clean water.
Mr Lutonja said improved access to water will support health, productivity and overall socio-economic development across Morogoro Region.
