Efforts to protect residents from recurring floods in Dar es Salaam have gained momentum after the Prime Minister’s Office, in partnership with OpenMap Development Tanzania (OMDTZ), validated new community disaster preparedness plans for five flood-prone wards.
The initiative, implemented under the Ramani Zetu, Sauti Zetu project, focuses on strengthening local readiness in Makurumula, Mabibo, Keko, Ubungo and Tabata areas that are frequently affected when heavy rains hit the city.
The validation workshop brought together local government leaders, ward disaster committees, regional and district disaster coordinators, technical experts and development partners.
The goal was to ensure that the plans reflect real conditions on the ground and can be used effectively by communities before, during and after disasters.
Opening the session, Assistant Director for Disaster Operations in the Prime Minister’s Office, Colonel Selestine Masalamado, said disaster plans must go beyond paper and be practical enough to save lives when emergencies occur.
He said the effectiveness of any plan depends on how well it fits local realities, available resources and the ability of institutions to respond quickly.
“This initiative, supported by the Zayed Sustainability Prize through OMDTZ in collaboration with the government, comes at a critical time. We expect it to strengthen disaster preparedness and response systems in our communities,” he said.
OMDTZ Executive Director Innocent Maholi said the organisation will continue working with the government to improve community resilience through digital mapping, technology and early warning systems in high-risk areas.
He noted that community participation in mapping flood risks helps identify evacuation routes, safe shelters and communication systems that can be used during emergencies.
Dar es Salaam Regional Disaster Coordinator Gerald Sondo said the exercise marks an important step in improving coordination and reducing the impact of floods in the city.
He said ward disaster committees have spent the past three months assessing risks, identifying safe evacuation areas, mapping routes, and establishing communication structures to support faster response during emergencies.
“These plans will now guide communities in preparing, responding and recovering from disasters. They are designed to make sure no one is left behind when floods occur,” he said.
Dar es Salaam continues to experience seasonal flooding that affects homes, transport systems and livelihoods, particularly in low-lying settlements.
Authorities say improving community-level preparedness is key to reducing losses and saving lives.
The validated plans are expected to serve as practical tools for local leaders and residents, strengthening early warning systems and improving coordination when disasters strike.
