The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water and Environment has urged the government to develop a comprehensive strategy to safeguard water sources, following a field visit to the Same-Mwanga Water Project.
The committee, led by Vice Chairperson Prof. Pius Yanda, praised the government for completing the strategic project, which had been stalled since 2014. Members said the project is a milestone in improving water supply for communities in the region.
However, the committee stressed the importance of protecting the Pangani River Basin, the main source of water for the project.
They recommended that the Ministry of Water implement strong measures to conserve and manage water resources sustainably.
Members also encouraged the government to explore renewable energy solutions, such as solar power, to run machinery in large-scale water projects. This approach would help reduce operational costs and ensure long-term sustainability.
Before visiting the project site, the committee, accompanied by Deputy Minister of Water Kundo Mathew, met with Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner Nurdin Babu to receive an update on water service coverage and availability in the region.
The visit forms part of the committee’s ongoing efforts to monitor water and environmental projects across the country, ensuring that development initiatives are effective, sustainable, and benefit local communities.
