Tanzania has called on African countries to step up efforts in protecting water sources and improving access to safe and clean water as a foundation for sustainable economic development and improved livelihoods.
The call was made by the Minister for Finance, Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar, who emphasized that water remains one of the most important natural resources for supporting human life and driving key economic sectors such as agriculture, energy, and industry.
Ambassador Omar made the remarks while participating in a high-level discussion on the role of the water sector in global development.
The meeting was held under the theme “Water Security for Africa’s Future: A Forward-Looking Perspective,” and was organized by the World Bank on the sidelines of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) Spring Meetings in Washington D.C., United States.
He said African countries must prioritize the identification, documentation, and strategic planning of water resources such as rivers, lakes, and underground water systems, ensuring they are fully integrated into national development plans at short-, medium-, and long-term levels.
According to him, proper planning and investment in water resources will help countries secure reliable water supply for citizens while also supporting economic activities that depend heavily on water.
Ambassador Omar further stressed the importance of protecting water catchment areas and strengthening environmental conservation measures.
He noted that many water sources face growing threats from pollution, encroachment, and inefficient use, which must be addressed through stronger policies and enforcement systems.
He also highlighted the need to reduce water losses in distribution systems, especially in urban and rural supply networks, to ensure that available water benefits the largest number of citizens.
The Minister warned that Africa’s rapidly growing population is increasing pressure on existing water resources, making it urgent for governments to invest more in sustainable water infrastructure and management systems.
He called for stronger partnerships between governments, the private sector, and development partners such as the World Bank to mobilize financial and technical support for water projects across the continent.
Participants at the meeting included finance ministers and senior officials from African member countries of the World Bank, who discussed policy reforms, investment priorities, and institutional improvements aimed at expanding access to safe and reliable water.
Ambassador Omar was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary in the President’s Office for Planning, who also serves as Executive Secretary of the National Planning Commission, Dr. Tausi Kida.
