The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening key infrastructure investments, with the Kidunda Dam project in Morogoro Region emerging as one of the most strategic developments expected to transform water supply, agriculture, energy production and environmental conservation in the country.
Government Spokesperson Gerson Msigwa has praised the Ministry of Water for the steady and well-coordinated implementation of the project, which has now reached 50.3 percent completion.
He made the remarks during an inspection visit at the project site, where he interacted with engineers and officials overseeing the construction works.
Msigwa, who also serves as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, said the Kidunda Dam stands among major national infrastructure projects that will deliver long-term benefits to millions of citizens, particularly those in Dar es Salaam and Coast Region who continue to face water supply challenges.
He noted that once completed, the dam will provide a sustainable solution to chronic water shortages affecting rapidly growing urban populations.
It is also expected to strengthen the performance of the Upper Ruvu and Lower Ruvu water treatment plants operated by the Dar es Salaam Water and Sewerage Authority (DAWASA), which supply water to millions of residents.
“After many years of delay since 1961, we commend President Samia Suluhu Hassan for allocating TZS 336 billion to make this historic project a reality. This project will directly benefit about seven million people in Dar es Salaam and Coast Region,” Msigwa said.
He added that beyond improving domestic water supply, the project will also stimulate economic growth through expanded irrigation farming, fisheries development and electricity generation.
The dam is expected to produce about 20 megawatts of hydroelectric power, contributing to the country’s energy mix.
Msigwa further clarified that environmental protection has been fully integrated into the design and implementation of the project, dismissing concerns that the dam could harm the ecosystem of the Ruvu River.
He explained that the dam will store about 190 billion litres of water, with only a small portion used daily for consumption needs.
A significant share of the water will be directed to water treatment plants, irrigation schemes such as the Mkulazi sugar project, and environmental flow systems to maintain the natural health of the river.
According to him, more than 600 million litres will support DAWASA’s water supply systems, around 400 million litres will be used for irrigation activities, while over 900 million litres will remain in the ecosystem to preserve environmental balance.
On the implementation side, DAWASA Project Manager Engineer Christian Christopher said construction works are progressing well and have reached just above 50 percent completion.
He said multiple construction activities are being implemented simultaneously to ensure the project stays on schedule and meets required standards.
He expressed confidence that the project will be completed by December 2026, noting that engineers and contractors are working closely to ensure quality, efficiency and timely delivery.
The Kidunda Dam remains one of the flagship infrastructure projects under the Sixth Phase Government, reflecting a broader national strategy to secure water resources, boost agricultural production, strengthen energy supply and promote sustainable development for current and future generations.
Once completed, the project is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for millions of citizens by ensuring reliable access to clean water, supporting economic activities and strengthening climate resilience across key regions of the country.
