Water supply and sanitation in Tanzania

Flag of Tanzania

Water supply and sanitation in Tanzania are characterized by a combination of achievements and challenges. The country has made significant progress in improving access to water supply and sanitation services, but there are still substantial gaps, particularly in rural areas.

Overview

Tanzania is located in East Africa and is bordered by Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique. The country has a population of approximately 60 million people, with a significant portion living in rural areas.

Water Supply

The water supply in Tanzania is managed by various entities, including the Ministry of Water, regional water authorities, and local government authorities. The main sources of water include surface water from rivers and lakes, and groundwater from wells and boreholes.

Urban Areas

In urban areas, water supply services are provided by urban water supply and sanitation authorities (UWSSAs). These authorities are responsible for the operation and maintenance of water supply infrastructure, including treatment plants, distribution networks, and customer services.

Rural Areas

In rural areas, water supply is managed by community-based organizations and local government authorities. The government has implemented various programs to improve rural water supply, such as the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Program (RWSSP).

Sanitation

Sanitation services in Tanzania are less developed compared to water supply services. The majority of the population relies on on-site sanitation facilities, such as pit latrines and septic tanks.

Urban Sanitation

In urban areas, sanitation services are provided by UWSSAs and local government authorities. However, the coverage of sewerage systems is limited, and many households use on-site sanitation facilities.

Rural Sanitation

In rural areas, sanitation services are primarily managed by households themselves. The government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have been promoting improved sanitation practices through various programs and initiatives.

Challenges

Despite progress, Tanzania faces several challenges in the water supply and sanitation sector, including:

• Limited access to safe drinking water in rural areas
• Inadequate sanitation facilities
• Poor maintenance of water supply infrastructure
• Financial constraints
• Climate change impacts on water resources

Government Initiatives

The government of Tanzania has undertaken several initiatives to address these challenges, including:

• The National Water Policy (NAWAPO)
• The Water Sector Development Program (WSDP)
• The National Sanitation Campaign

See also

• Water resources management in Tanzania
• Environmental issues in Tanzania
• Health in Tanzania