Water bond plan targets strategic projects
DODOMA: MINISTER for water, Jumaa Aweso has proposed the introduction of a Water Infrastructure Bond to mobilise more funds for strategic water projects saying the country should adopt innovative financing models to accelerate development.
Mr Aweso made the proposal over the weekend during a working meeting with officials and staff of the National Water Fund at the institution’s offices in Dodoma.
“We have done well through the Tanga UWASA bond. Now is the time to have a Water Infrastructure Bond issued specifically to finance water projects in other areas,” Mr Aweso said.
He said the proposed bond would build on the success of the Tanga Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Authority (Tanga UWASA) bond while creating a dedicated financing instrument for expanding water infrastructure.
The minister challenged the National Water Fund to diversify its financing sources instead of relying on conventional funding mechanisms, saying innovation was essential to implementing projects with lasting benefits for communities.
“Innovation and accountability must translate this vision into practical action so the Fund can contribute more to the government’s goal of providing reliable, safe and sustainable water services,” he said.
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Mr Aweso directed the Fund’s management and staff to implement the government’s guidance through stronger innovation and accountability, saying strategic water investments required sustainable financing.
Ministry of Water Permanent Secretary Engineer Mwajuma Waziri urged staff to work in unity while observing public service laws, regulations and procedures.
“We must work together while protecting government secrets and official documents as we carry out our responsibilities,” Engineer Waziri said.
National Water Fund Chief Executive Officer Advocate Haji Nandule assured the minister and the Permanent Secretary that the institution would act on the directives without delay.
“We will closely supervise implementation to ensure the guidance produces tangible results,” Advocate Nandule said.
