Samia unveils new national policy with focus on water security

Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has launched the 2025 National Water Policy and directed the Ministry of Water to establish a water grid that ensures a sustainable water supply for national security.

She said, similar to electricity, the water grid will be regionally centred, with distribution managed through technological advancements already in progress. She emphasised that by 2030, implementation should be significantly advanced.

President Hassan instructed water institutions to explore alternative funding sources through green financing to strengthen the water fund rather than relying on a single source.

 The goal is to ensure timely and sustainable delivery of water services.

These remarks were made on Saturday, March 22, 2025, following the Water Week commemoration, which ran from March 16 to 22.

The week’s theme "Glacier Preservation," highlighted the critical role of glaciers in maintaining global freshwater supplies and the urgent need for conservation efforts in response to climate change.

She noted that aspects of the policy must be revised to support national progress.

“When the 2002 water policy was introduced, the population was smaller. Now, the population has grown, and by 2050, it is expected to double to 121 million. The policy must adapt to these changes,” she said.

The policy aims to ensure food security and mitigate the effects of climate change, which will significantly impact water availability. President Hassan stressed that early preparations and improvements are essential to effectively manage these challenges.

She urged Tanzanians to safeguard water sources and infrastructure to ensure continued access to safe and reliable water.

"I truly commend Tangauwasa (Tanga Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Authority) for securing funds from various sources. This has enabled them to implement all their projects. Others should follow this example to strengthen the water fund and ensure sustainable water access," she said.

She added that the government will continue enhancing funding sources to guarantee uninterrupted water services, including timely infrastructure improvements.

The Head of State highlighted the importance of rainwater harvesting and leveraging technology to improve water access.

“I want the ministry to engage young people with technological skills to develop innovative solutions that will benefit the public,” she directed.

Water minister Jumaa Aweso explained that the existing water policy, established over 20 years ago, does not align with modern technological advancements or environmental challenges.

He noted that the previous policy lacked provisions for climate change and had limited private-sector involvement, indicating that the new policy prioritizes private-sector participation to attract investment.

"Despite numerous challenges in accessing water services, many citizens are now benefiting from projects that had stalled for years. Our 2002 policy did not align with current climate and technological changes, so this new policy is designed to address these issues and encourage private sector investment," he said.

Prof Kitila Mkumbo, the minister of State in the President’s Office responsible for Planning and Investment, described the ongoing water projects as a “game changer,” noting that many have been completed since 2015.

He highlighted that in 2000, rural water access stood at 32 percent, but by 2024, it is projected to reach 79.1 percent—an achievement driven by transformations in the sector.

Prof Mkumbo also said that Tanzania is preparing to become Africa’s food basket, with ongoing water projects playing a key role in achieving this goal.

"During the sixth phase of leadership, significant progress has been made in the water sector, and citizens are benefiting," he said.

While acknowledging challenges in the sector, he emphasised that robust strategies are in place to ensure services reach people in all corners of the country.

"We are especially grateful for the Kidunda project, which will be a vital lifeline for Dar es Salaam residents," he emphasised.