Tanzania to Establish National Water Grid as President Samia Launches New National Water Policy 2025

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – March 22, 2025

In a landmark move to reshape the future of water security in Tanzania, President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan has officially launched the revised National Water Policy 2025, signaling the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring clean and reliable water access for all citizens.

Speaking during the World Water Day and National Water Week celebrations at the Mlimani City Conference Hall in Dar es Salaam, President Samia announced a bold new vision — the establishment of a National Water Grid. This transformative initiative will interconnect water sources and infrastructure across the country to guarantee equitable and uninterrupted water supply, especially to regions that have historically faced scarcity.

“I direct the immediate establishment of a National Water Grid to end the chronic water shortage in some parts of the country,” President Samia declared. “Every Tanzanian deserves reliable access to clean and safe water — not just some, but all.”

The revised policy replaces the 2002 edition and is designed to respond to modern-day challenges including population growth, climate change, food security, and global geopolitical shifts. According to President Samia, these realities necessitate a forward-thinking, resilient water strategy that aligns with national development priorities.

A People-Centered Approach to Water Governance

The new policy emphasizes inclusive participation and the collective responsibility of all Tanzanians in conserving water sources and protecting water infrastructure. The Head of State reiterated that water resource management is not the sole duty of the Ministry of Water, but a shared national responsibility.

“Let us all protect our water sources and infrastructure. Sustainable access to water begins with safeguarding our environment,” she said.

Recognition for Transformative Leadership

In recognition of her exemplary leadership, President Samia was awarded two prestigious honors:

• The National “Gamechanger” Award for revolutionizing Tanzania’s water sector.
• The Pan-African Water Champion Award from WaterAid Africa, which also appointed her as the Continental Patron for Water and Sanitation.

These accolades underscore her influential role not only within Tanzania but across the continent, in advancing sustainable water and sanitation solutions.

Milestones of the 2025 National Water Week

The launch of the new policy was accompanied by a series of impactful initiatives aimed at accelerating water access and promoting environmental stewardship. Key highlights included:

• “Water and Women” Campaign promoting rainwater harvesting and empowering women in water conservation.
• Laying of the foundation stone for the Kidunda Dam.
• Inauguration of Phase I of the Same–Mwanga–Korogwe Water Project.
• Performance reviews of Tanzania’s water authorities and sector strategies.
• Signing of a water project agreement for the town of Tunduma.

These efforts are aligned with Tanzania’s goal of achieving 85% rural and 95% urban water access coverage by December 2025. As of now, the country stands at 83% in rural areas and 91% in urban centers.

Safeguarding Nature for Water Security

The theme for this year’s celebrations, “Preserving Natural Vegetation for Water Security”, echoed throughout the event. It called attention to the vital link between environmental conservation and the sustainability of water sources, urging citizens and institutions alike to prioritize ecosystem protection.

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Looking Ahead

The launch of the National Water Policy 2025 and the directive to establish a National Water Grid mark a turning point in Tanzania’s development journey. With bold leadership and collaborative implementation, Tanzania is poised to not only meet its water access targets but also become a regional model for sustainable water governance.

As President Samia continues to champion transformation in the water sector, the ripple effects will be felt across health, agriculture, education, and economic productivity — one drop at a time.