New Water Project to Benefit 300,000 Citizens

President Samia Inaugurates 406bn/- Same-Mwanga-Korogwe Water Project

Milestone Achievement in Tanzania’s Water Sector

Kilimanjaro, Tanzania – After nearly two decades of planning and execution, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has officially launched the Same-Mwanga-Korogwe Water Project, a landmark initiative valued at 406.07 billion Tanzanian shillings. The transformative project is expected to provide clean water access to 300,000 citizens across three districts, significantly improving living standards and public health.

Funded through concessional loans from the Saudi Development Fund and the Kuwait Fund, the initiative underscores Tanzania’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure development.

“I do not believe in failure. Although this project took time, I tasked the Minister for Water to ensure its completion. Today, we celebrate this success,” President Samia declared during the official launch ceremony in the Kilimanjaro Region on Sunday.

A Project 18 Years in the Making

The project journey began in 2006 with feasibility studies and has now reached completion in 2024, thanks to strong collaboration between the government and its international partners. The initiative marks a significant improvement in the region’s water production capacity, increasing from just 3.7 million litres per day to 51.65 million litres per day—ensuring continuous water supply to 38 villages. Previously, only 50,615 residents had reliable access to clean water.

Prepaid Water Meters for Efficient Billing

As part of a broader strategy to enhance service delivery and revenue collection, President Samia instructed the Ministry of Water to expedite the rollout of prepaid water meters nationwide. The prepaid system will require customers to pay for water usage in advance, ensuring financial sustainability and effective loan repayment for the project’s financiers.

“Infrastructure investments must be financially viable. Citizens in connected areas must transition to prepaid meters to ensure sustainable revenue collection,” President Samia emphasized.

She also pointed out inefficiencies in the traditional postpaid billing system, which often resulted in water misuse and unpaid bills. The new prepaid model will help rectify these issues by promoting accountability and conservation.

Ensuring Water Source Conservation

Beyond infrastructure, President Samia stressed the need for safeguarding Tanzania’s natural water sources, particularly the Nyumba ya Mungu Dam, to maintain a consistent supply.

“Infrastructure is meaningless if water sources are not protected. We must take conservation seriously to ensure the long-term success of these investments,” she urged.

Regional Development & Power Supply Enhancements

The President also announced ongoing agreements with neighboring countries to enhance electricity supply in the northern regions, ensuring that Kilimanjaro and surrounding areas have reliable access to both water and power in the future.

Acknowledgment of Key Stakeholders

Minister for Water, Jumaa Aweso, expressed gratitude to President Samia for her leadership and vision, acknowledging the direct impact of her involvement in ensuring the project's success.

“Your determination to ease the burden on women who walk long distances for water inspired us to work tirelessly. Today’s success is a testament to your leadership,” said Minister Aweso.

The Minister also extended appreciation to former Vice President and Prime Minister Cleopa Msuya for his contributions and guidance throughout the project’s implementation.

Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner, Nurdin Babu, confirmed that the project has significantly increased water availability, with clean water coverage in Same and Mwanga districts now standing at 89%.

A Brighter Future for Tanzania’s Water Sector

The Same-Mwanga-Korogwe Water Project is a pivotal step toward Tanzania’s goal of universal clean water access. With enhanced infrastructure, an improved billing system, and strategic conservation measures, the initiative is set to boost public health, economic growth, and regional development for years to come.