DAR ES SALAAM: WATER loss caused by theft continues to be a significant challenge for Water Authorities, with reports indicating that 36 percent of water is lost, resulting in a financial loss of approximately 114.1bn/-.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr Doto Biteko, revealed this today during the launch of the Water Authorities’ Performance Report for the 2023/24 financial year. He stated that the lost funds could have been used to establish new water sources and improve services for citizens.
Apart from water loss, Dr. Biteko highlighted another major challenge: inadequate water production that does not meet the needs of the population. He also mentioned that the authorities with the highest water loss rates include Rombo (70 percent, Handeni (69 percent), Ifakara (56 percent), and Kilindoni (55 percent).
In contrast, Maganzo, Nzega, Kashuwasa, and Bihalamuro are leading in controlling water loss.
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Dr Biteko called on all water authorities to collaborate with the private sector in addressing these challenges and implementing strategies to reduce water loss to prevent significant financial losses for the government.
On his part, the Minister of Water, Jumaa Aweso, emphasized that authorities responsible for high water loss should face strict measures due to the substantial financial implications.
“The release of performance reports should not be a mere routine. We must identify underperforming authorities so that appropriate actions can be taken. A director is not just about wearing a suit; a director must deliver results. Instead of merely discussing water loss in percentages, we should present the figures in financial terms so that people can fully grasp the impact,” Aweso stated.
Nevertheless, Aweso commended the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) for ensuring proper management of water billing and reducing water loss.
Meanwhile, EWURA Board Chairman, Mark Mwandosya, pointed out that investment in the water sector is closely linked to the health sector, as access to clean water and proper sanitation helps prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases.
Mwandosya also referred to the 2022 National Statistics Report, which shows that over 70 percent of primary and secondary school institutions have access to clean and safe water. This has enabled students to focus on their studies instead of spending time searching for water.
