DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr Doto Biteko, has urged Tanzanians to uphold national unity and resist political or religious divisions as the country heads towards the 2025 General Election.

Speaking during the inauguration of a vital water supply project at Esilalei Village in Monduli District, Arusha Region yesterday Dr Biteko underscored the importance of solidarity and peaceful coexistence for the country’s development.

“I dream of a nation that cannot be divided by religion, ethnicity or political ideologies. Let’s embrace one another, work together, and vote fairly when the time comes,” he said.

Dr Biteko applauded the Ministry of Water and the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA) for successfully implementing the Esilalei water project. 

He assured residents that the second phase of the project would be completed by December this year, further improving water access in the area.

He also praised the people of Monduli for their hard work in agriculture and livestock keeping, affirming that President Samia Suluhu Hassan values their contributions and is committed to improving rural livelihoods.

On rural electrification, he reported that all villages in Monduli have been connected to electricity, with 72 out of 236 sub-villages already benefiting. He pledged that the remaining areas would be connected after the October General Election.

In response to a request from Monduli MP Freddy Lowassa for 20 electricity poles, Dr Biteko promised swift action.  “Starting this Thursday and into next week, you will see electricity reaching households—no conditions, just delivery. We are judged by what we do, not what we say,” he noted.

He also spoke of the 61st anniversary of the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar, calling it a rare success.  “Many nations have tried to unite and failed. Our union is a global example of enduring peace and cooperation,” he added.

Dr Steven Kiruswa, Deputy Minister for Minerals, commended the government’s efforts, saying the water project would significantly improve lives and support livestock in the district. 

“Water is life. This development is a major boost for our pastoral communities,” he said. Lowassa echoed his appreciation, stating that access to clean water had been a major challenge in Monduli for years. “We thank the government for making this long-awaited project a reality,” he said.

Naville Msaki, RUWASA Monduli District Manager, said the Esilalei water project—designed in 2021—is at 96 percent and will serve more than 8,800 residents and 24,000 livestock. The total project cost is 2.7bn/-.