World Water Day, observed annually on March 22 since 1993 and organized by the United Nations, highlights the importance of water and promotes mindful consumption of drinking water. KfW Development Bank has been actively involved in the water sector across various partner countries, including Tanzania.
Tanzania faces significant challenges due to limited access to clean drinking water and safe sanitation. Despite years of international support, these issues persist as the population grows by approximately 1.8 million people each year, increasing demand for water. The agricultural and industrial sectors also require more water resources. Climate change further complicates matters with prolonged droughts or heavy rainfall affecting water project designs.
For nearly two decades, KfW has supported Tanzania's government in providing safe drinking water and reliable sanitation while promoting efficient use of water resources amid climate change impacts, following BMZ directives.
The 'Sustainable Water and Sanitation Measures in Seven Cities' program implements diverse initiatives such as drilling wells, installing house connections, building public standpipes, purchasing septic tank emptying vehicles, and constructing school toilets. Hygiene campaigns are part of this comprehensive program that aids municipal water suppliers in operations and maintenance. The program targets regional towns like Babati, Simiyu, Kigoma, Sumbawanga, Lindi, Mtwara, and Mwanza. Besides FC funding from the EU through a mandate to KfW and the French Development Agency (AFD), close cooperation with TC enhances measures through training specialists from the Ministry of Water and local municipalities.
The project's goal is to improve health, productivity, and well-being among poor urban populations. In Kigoma on Lake Tanganyika—a focal point—residents benefit from improved services under this initiative seen as a model project by Tanzanian authorities. It holds pilot status not only for its integrated approach but also for its national impact through regular meetings of regional water suppliers facilitated by the program.