Tanzania’s Deputy Prime Minister Urges Strategic Action to Address Water Loss

Tanzania’s Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Doto Biteko has urged immediate action to reduce alarming water loss rates of 36.8%, amounting to a financial loss of Sh114.12 billion. He emphasized the need for collaboration among stakeholders, investment in infrastructure, and prioritization of sanitation alongside water supply. The country faces growing water demand amid inefficiencies, demanding comprehensive solutions for improved service.

In Tanzania, Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Doto Biteko has emphasized the urgent need for effective strategies to reduce water loss and its accompanying financial burdens on the sector. Addressing the 16th Performance Report of Water Supply and Sanitation Authorities for the 2023/24 financial year, he indicated that the loss of 36.8 percent water equates to an astounding financial loss of Sh114.12 billion, which exceeds the government’s 20 percent threshold for acceptable water loss.

Dr. Biteko noted a minor improvement from the previous year’s 37.2 percent loss but deemed the current rate alarming due to its financial implications. He highlighted that uncollected water revenue could finance significant water projects, underlining the problem’s dual roots in infrastructure issues and water theft. Specifically, he pointed out concerning loss rates among certain authorities, including Rombo at 79 percent and Handeni at 69 percent, while others like Maganzo had commendable rates as low as 4 to 13 percent.

The Deputy Prime Minister also expressed the severe consequences in areas with high loss rates, stating that insufficient water is actually reaching communities. Additionally, he warned of the dire financial implications of such losses, stating, “If you invest in water production but lose 70 percent of it, the revenue collected does not match the expenditure.” He urged for strategic collaboration among stakeholders, emphasizing the need for the private sector’s involvement and investment in both water production and infrastructure that currently meets only 45 percent of demand.

Despite an increase in production to 685 million liters in the 2023/24 year, it remains inadequate against soaring demand. Dr. Biteko observed a decline in the production-to-demand ratio, which further complicates the efficacy of current water infrastructures as indicated by a decrease in the operational capacity ratio to 53 percent.

Moreover, he called for significant improvements in sanitation infrastructure, noting that only 11 water authorities have proper wastewater treatment systems. He posited that sanitation should be prioritized alongside water supply for holistic environmental health. “This issue is cross-cutting and must remain a priority in the water sector,” he emphasized, indicating that guidelines have been prepared to improve water availability and environmental hygiene.

Dr. James Mwainyekule, Director General of the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (Ewura), acknowledged some progress in efficiency but noted continual reliance on government funding and the need for innovative investment strategies. Ewura is working with the ministry to provide training on alternative financial options, including issuing municipal bonds.

The longstanding issue of outdated infrastructure has compounded water losses. To combat this, Ewura has implemented strategies to improve maintenance and ensure effective water distribution. Prof. Mark Mwandosya, Chairman of the Ewura Board, also pointed out that enhanced water supply could reduce waterborne diseases and significantly improve educational environments, with over 70 percent of educational institutions now having access to clean water.

The challenge for Tanzania lies in addressing the growing demand for water while rectifying sector inefficiencies. Together, government officials and stakeholders must devise comprehensive solutions to mitigate water loss and enhance supply services nationwide.

In conclusion, the urgent call by Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Doto Biteko for effective measures against water loss highlights significant financial ramifications for Tanzania’s water sector. Despite slight improvements, a concerning 36.8 percent water loss poses challenges in meeting demand and maintaining sustainability. It is essential for water authorities to collaborate with private stakeholders and address infrastructure inadequacies, while advocating for improved sanitation. The collective effort is vital to ensure a resilient water supply system for the nation.

Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz