Govt pays 4.9bn/- to protect water source

DODOMA: THE government has paid 4.9bn/- in compensation to 880 residents of Mpera and Sokoine areas in Chamwino District, Dodoma Region to pave the way for protection of a water source.

Deputy Minister for Water Kundo Mathew handed over cheques to representatives of the affected residents during an event held in Chamwino on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, Mr Mathew said water is a key driver of development, stressing that protecting water sources is vital for the country to achieve the goals of Tanzania Development Vision 2050.

He said the government was committed to ensuring access to safe and reliable water infrastructure as part of broader national development efforts.

“Without water sources, there can be no water. We must therefore protect existing sources and identify new ones to ensure a reliable supply,” he said.

Mr Mathew said the government has so far paid a total of 36.576bn/- in compensation in various water-source areas countrywide, benefiting 11,703 residents who relocated to allow construction of dams and protection of water sources.

He said the compensation demonstrated the government’s commitment to safeguarding water sources in Dodoma and other parts of the country.

The Deputy Minister directed Basin Water Boards to ensure all compensated areas were properly managed, clearly demarcated and officially declared protected water-source zones.

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He also called on water authorities to work closely with Basin Water Boards, noting that they were among the key beneficiaries of the resources.

Furthermore, he directed that all water infrastructure and source areas be properly surveyed and secured through title deeds to prevent encroachment and other threats.

Mr Mathew also instructed the boards to assess the condition of all water sources, identify environmental degradation and implement measures to curb encroachment and protect the environment.

“It is the responsibility of every Tanzanian to protect water sources and ensure their sustainability,” he said.