Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, while launching the 2025 edition of the National Water Policy 2002 at the national celebrations of World Water Day held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Mlimani City, Dar es Salaam, has called on Tanzania to be cautious of the effects of climate change, and shifting global political dynamics.
She stated that looking ahead, the government had to revise the Water Policy following consultations among stakeholders, including those from the water, agriculture, planning, and investment office involved in drafting the country’s development vision.
“For a country to progress well, you must look at both the present and the future,” said President Samia. “There are issues related to climate change, which will significantly affect our access to water and impact water sources. Water is becoming a crucial political issue globally, so we must start addressing this now and prepare for the future.”
President Samia emphasized that ensuring sustainable water availability requires cooperation between the government and citizens, particularly in protecting water sources and maintaining water infrastructure, which has been built at a high cost.
“It is not the sole responsibility of the Ministry of Water; it is everyone’s duty. Local government councils, villages, and individuals must all be involved to ensure reliable water services,” she stressed.
She also highlighted the need to continue rainwater harvesting initiatives and urged the Ministry of Water to begin planning for a national water grid, a system of zonal water stations interconnected nationwide to ensure water security across all areas at all times.
According to the Tanzanian Ministry of Water, by 2024, access to clean and safe water in urban areas had reached 95%, while in rural areas, it stood at 83%. Meanwhile, only 0.96% of households in areas with sanitation systemes services were connected to a sewer system as of 2023.
In Zanzibar, the 2024 edition of the 2004 Water and Sanitation Policy was launched at Golden Tulip Zanzibar, where President Hussein Mwinyi urged his government to ensure its implementation to address the water challenges facing the island’s residents.
