DAWASA’s TZS 182.5 million Kibosha Mnarani water project has attracted a strong response from residents, with more than 100 people in Kibosha Mji Mpya, Dar es Salaam, applying for new clean and safe water connections as the project nears completion.
The project, implemented by the Dar es Salaam Water and Sewerage Authority (DAWASA), is expected to benefit at least 500 households in Kibosha Area A, Area B and Area C.
It aims to permanently resolve long-standing water shortages in the area and replace unsafe and distant water sources with reliable piped water services.
The high number of applications has been attributed to a flexible payment arrangement introduced by DAWASA Chief Executive Officer Engineer Mkama Bwire, allowing residents to connect to the water system and pay installation costs in instalments.
The initiative has made access to water services more affordable for many households that previously could not afford full upfront payments.
DAWASA Communications Manager Everlasting Lyaro said the response from the community has been very encouraging since the introduction of the instalment payment option.
He said more than 110 residents have already submitted applications for new connections, and the number continues to grow as awareness increases across the area.
“For many years, Kibosha residents faced serious water challenges because there was no proper water network in the area. The ongoing project has created strong interest, and many residents are now eager to be connected,” said Lyaro.
He added that DAWASA teams are continuing with customer registration while final construction works are being completed to ensure residents start receiving water services without delay.
Kibosha Kitongoji Chairman Shabani Athuman said the project marks a major improvement in the quality of life for residents, noting that it will significantly reduce dependence on unsafe water sources and long distances previously traveled to fetch water.
He commended the government under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for supporting the project through DAWASA, saying it reflects continued efforts to improve essential services at community level.
“Previously, we depended on distant wells, and the water was not safe for consumption. This project will finally bring clean water closer to our homes,” said Athuman.
Residents have also welcomed the project, especially the instalment payment arrangement, which they say has enabled many households to apply for connections without financial burden.
Zubeda Saidi, a resident of Kibosha Area B, said the availability of clean water and flexible payment terms has brought long-awaited relief to families in the area.
“We are very happy that water has finally reached us. The instalment system has made it possible for many of us to register,” she said.
Alongside the connection exercise, DAWASA is also conducting public education on proper water use, connection procedures and service management to ensure sustainable use of the infrastructure once fully operational.
Once completed, the Kibosha Mnarani water project is expected to improve public health, reduce waterborne diseases, and save residents time previously spent searching for water, while strengthening access to safe and reliable water services in Dar es Salaam.
