Zanzibar secures grant to boost clean water access

ZANZIBAR: THE Zanzibar government, in partnership with the German Development Bank (KfW), has signed a grant agreement worth €25 million (approximately 70 billion Tanzanian shillings) to expand access to clean and safe water across the islands of Unguja and Pemba.

Speaking during the signing ceremony held at the Zanzibar Utilities Regulatory Authority (ZURA) offices at Maisara, Permanent Secretary in the President’s Office (Finance and Planning), Dr Juma Malik, said the initiative aims to ensure that households receive clean water directly, easing the burden of fetching water manually especially for women.

“This project aims to improve the daily lives of our people by ensuring clean water is available at the household level. It’s time we move away from the image of women carrying water on their heads and embrace modern infrastructure that serves everyone with dignity,” said Dr Malik.

Dr Malik further noted that wastewater will no longer go to waste. “Under Zanzibar’s new water policy, even wastewater will be treated and repurposed for activities such as irrigation and other environmentally beneficial uses,” he said.

“We now have a new water policy that promotes the utilisation of treated wastewater. It is part of a broader strategy to advance sustainable development while safeguarding the environment,” he added.

On his part, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Water, Energy and Minerals, Mr Joseph John Kilangi, said the agreement also prioritises the development of modern wastewater infrastructure, which is crucial for protecting public health and the environment.

“The project will especially benefit Pemba, where four new water schemes will be constructed to ensure easier access to this essential service,” Kilangi said. “Our ministry is fully committed to ensuring all areas of Unguja and Pemba receive reliable water services.”

Ms Jennifer Woerl, KfW’s Country Director in Dar es Salaam, said a significant portion of the investment will be focused on Pemba due to its growing tourism sector and increasing demand for clean water.

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“With the rising number of hotels and businesses in Pemba, the demand for clean water is high. We are committed to helping build the necessary infrastructure to meet these demands sustainably,” she said.

The five-year agreement is part of ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for Zanzibaris through access to safe, clean and reliable water sources.