The Dar es Salaam Water Supply and Sanitation Authority (DAWASA) and leaders from Ubungo Municipality have agreed on a joint approach to tackle persistent water supply challenges, following a consultative meeting that brought together councillors and water sector officials.
The meeting, chaired by Ubungo Mayor Lawrence Mlaki, provided a platform for councillors to present concerns raised by residents in their respective wards and discuss possible interventions to improve access to water services across the municipality.
The discussions come as authorities seek to address growing demand for water in one of Dar es Salaam’s fastest-expanding districts, where rapid urbanisation has continued to place pressure on existing infrastructure.
Speaking during the meeting, Mr Mlaki said the engagement had enabled councillors to communicate directly with DAWASA officials on issues affecting communities and identify areas requiring urgent attention.
He noted that recommendations presented during the session would help guide efforts to improve water service delivery and strengthen coordination between the utility and local government leaders.
According to Mr Mlaki, Ubungo District Commissioner Albert Msando welcomed the initiative, saying dialogue among stakeholders was essential in finding sustainable solutions to water supply challenges facing residents.
The mayor also highlighted ongoing works at the Upper Ruvu Water Treatment Plant, where DAWASA is installing new pumps to boost water production and distribution capacity.
He said the project is expected to ease water shortages in several parts of Ubungo and improve the reliability of supply once completed.
The meeting heard that accelerating the installation of the new pumps was among the key recommendations raised by councillors, who said improved production capacity would help address recurring supply interruptions experienced in some neighbourhoods.
DAWASA Board Chairman Romanus Mwangingo said the authority had taken note of the concerns and proposals submitted by councillors and would incorporate them into ongoing efforts to enhance service delivery.
He said DAWASA remained committed to ensuring residents receive adequate and reliable water services, adding that addressing the issues raised would be a priority.
For his part, DAWASA Chief Executive Officer Mkama Bwire underscored the importance of collaboration between the utility and local leaders in identifying areas facing chronic water shortages.
He said information provided by councillors would help the authority prioritise interventions and direct resources to areas where they are needed most.
The meeting reflects broader efforts by DAWASA and local government authorities to strengthen water infrastructure and improve service reliability in Dar es Salaam, where population growth continues to drive demand for clean and safe water.
