Minister for Water Juma Aweso has instructed experts in the ministry to conduct thorough research to facilitate drilling of water wells to address severe water shortage in Dodoma city.

Aweso made the directive yesterday while speaking to residents of Nkuhungu Ward during a visit to inspect areas facing significant water challenges.

According to Dodoma Urban Water and Sanitation Authority (DUWASA), the daily water demand in Dodoma is 147 million litres while production stands at only 79 million litres, resulting in a shortfall of 68 million litres per day.

He explained that while the government has long-term plans, including sourcing water from Lake Victoria and constructing Farkwa Dam, citizens cannot afford to wait.

He acknowledged that immediate alternative solutions must be identified to address the pressing issue.

“Water is irreplaceable; we cannot postpone action until these major projects are completed. We must ensure that research is conducted to drill wells that guarantee reliable access to water for residents,” he said.

He emphasized the need for research to commence as soon as possible, enabling wells to be drilled and residents to start accessing water to alleviate the current hardships.

“As minister, my greatest satisfaction comes from seeing people receive water. There is no greater solution for someone without water than to provide it. Therefore, I will not be an obstacle preventing residents from accessing the essential resource,” he said.

Additionally, he urged water authorities across the country to implement prepaid water meters to eliminate complaints about residents being billed for water they do not receive.

“Prepaid meters are the solution to the problem of incorrect billing. There have been numerous complaints whereby individuals go without water for three months yet receive bills for 100,000/-. This is unacceptable; we must embrace technological advancements,” he said.

Antony Mavunde, Minister for Minerals and Dodoma Urban legislator, expressed gratitude to the government for its efforts to address water challenges in the city.

“I sincerely thank you, the minister, for visiting Dodoma to inspect the areas facing significant water shortages. This city is growing rapidly, and the demand for water has doubled,’ he said.