Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE government is taking every option to address the shortage of fresh water across the country, with the emphasis now placed on boreholes to increase water supply in rural areas. Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has already issued instructions to the Rural Water and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA) to conduct a hydrogeological survey in Lindi Region, to establish areas where fresh water boreholes can be drilled.
The move is part of implementing a strategy to end water woes in rural and urban areas, alongside implementation of the 2020-2025 election manifesto of the ruling party, CCM.
Mr Majaliwa issued the directives on Wednesday in Kilwa District as he was addressing residents of Miteja, Chumo and Kipatimu villages, during his ongoing tour in Lindi Region to inspect development projects. He said President Samia Suluhu Hassan is keen to ensure adequate supply of water across the country, including rural areas.
“The government is aware of challenges on accessibility of water in districts of Lindi region, we shall continue working on it by bringing the service close to people,” he said.
Expounding further, the Premier explained the government’s plan to start fetching water from river Rufiji to Kilwa and Nachingwea districts.
“The government is now adopting the approach of fetching water for domestic use from large sources such as rivers and lakes,” he said.
Adding; “This technology has already been used in supplying water from Lake Victoria to some parts of central zone regions including Tabora.” He said, effective implementation of the project will offer a huge relief to residents in various towns, especially women who have been walking for miles in search of the precious liquid.
In another development, Premier Majaliwa asked civil servants to work in accordance with the rules, guidelines and principles of public service, saying the government will not tolerate officials who fail to implement their duties.
“President Samia wants all civil servants to work according to the guiding rules and regulations. They have to be punctual in delivering services to the public,” he noted.
Speaking at Kipatimu, Mr Majaliwa instructed the Lindi Regional Medical Officer (RMO) Dr Kheri Kagya to bring an X-ray specialist at St Martin hospital, in a move to improve provision of health services in the village.
The Premier also instructed the Kilwa District Commissioner Zainabu Kawawa to supervise finishing of the Masaninga Primary School in Miteja Village that was being constructed through the mobilised efforts by the villagers.
He issued the directives when responding to a concern raised by the village Chairman Abdallah Kalikungute, when the villagers stopped the motorcade of the Premier along the Kilwa- Dar es Salaam highway.
Addressing the villagers, Mr Majaliwa directed the DC to ensure the classrooms are ready by November 4th this year, pledging that the government would construct another two classrooms.
