Dar es Salaam. Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Doto Biteko, has drawn attention to the alarming losses of Sh114.12 billion resulting from significant water wastage and inefficiencies in management by various authorities.
In response to these concerns, he called on all water authorities nationwide to take immediate action to address this issue, emphasizing that access to water services is a fundamental right.
Speaking during the launch of the Performance Report of Water Authorities for the year 2023/24 financial year, held in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, Dr Biteko stated that it is crucial to protect water sources to ensure their availability for all citizens.
He highlighted that, alongside government efforts, communities have a responsibility to maintain environmental cleanliness, plant trees, and conserve forests to continue benefiting from water resources.
“Failure to protect our water sources and the environment will lead us into a significant water crisis,” warned Dr Biteko, who doubles as the Minister for Energy.
He added that the lack of water resources for some communities could trigger conflicts and unrest.
To enable every Tanzanian to access clean water and sanitation services, Dr Biteko directed water authorities to reduce the current level of water wastage, which has resulted in substantial financial losses.
As of now, approximately 84 percent of urban areas and 79.6 percen of rural areas have access to water services, reflecting a seven percent increase from the previous year.
Earlier, the Minister for Water, Mr Jumaa Aweso, noted improvements in water quality and the control of wastage, which has a significant financial impact.
He praised the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) for its diligent work and for providing realistic reports, mentioning that high-performing authorities receive awards as an incentive for development competition.
Dr James Andilile, the Director General of EWURA, acknowledged the successes achieved but also pointed out ongoing challenges stemming from the authorities’ dependency on the government and the aging water infrastructure, which contributes to wastage and financial losses
Authorities that have effectively managed water loss, with their respective percentages of water loss in brackets, include Maganzo (four percent), Nzega (six percent), Kashuwasa (11 percent), Biharamulo (12 percent), and Mwanuzi (13 percent).
In contrast, those struggling significantly with water loss are Rombo (70 percent), Handeni (69 percent), Mugango/Kyabakari (68 percent), Ifakara (56 percent), and Kilindoni (55 percent)
As a gesture of recognition, Dr Biteko presented awards and certificates to water authorities that have excelled in providing services to citizens.
Meanwhile, Prof Mark Mwandosya, the Chairman of the EWURA Board, commended the government for prioritizing water services, with the budget increasing from Sh206 billion in 2010/11 to Sh558 billion in 2024/25.
He explained that investments in the water sector yield more than seven times the initial capital, as a $1 investment can generate $7 in national economic returns
