CCM presidential candidate Samia Suluhu Hassan has pledged to end the long-standing problem of flooding in Dar es Salaam Region through major drainage and infrastructure projects aimed at protecting lives, property and the city’s economy.

Addressing a campaign rally at Leaders Club Grounds yesterday, Samia said her government had already prioritised flood control as a key urban resilience agenda, with comprehensive measures being implemented in the most flood-prone areas — including Tandale, Magomeni, Makumbusho, Kigogo, Jangwani and Basihaya.
“Flooding has for years disrupted people’s lives, destroyed homes and paralyzed businesses,” she said. “We are now constructing large drainage systems that will permanently divert stormwater to the Indian Ocean, ending this recurring problem once and for all.”
According to Samia, the ongoing works include building major stormwater canals extending from the city’s inner suburbs towards the sea through Basihaya in Kinondoni District. The project is part of a wider flood mitigation plan supported by multi-billion-shilling government investment.
She added that 97bn/- has been allocated for the construction of a 400-metre bridge in Jangwani, an area that frequently floods during heavy rains, cutting off transport and affecting businesses.

Funds have been set aside for drainage and bridge works in Kigogo, while 17bn/- will go towards flood mitigation from Magomeni to Mkwajuni.
“These projects are not temporary fixes — they are permanent, sustainable solutions designed to protect the people of Dar es Salaam,” Samia said.
The CCM flag bearer said her administration would also complete the construction of large water retention systems and ensure regular maintenance of existing drainage channels to prevent blockages that often worsen the problem.
Samia linked the flooding challenge to the city’s rapid urbanisation, saying the government is also focusing on improved land planning, housing projects and environmental management to make Dar es Salaam a safer and more liveable city.
“We are not only addressing floods, but also reshaping Dar es Salaam into a modern, resilient city where people can live, work and invest confidently,” she said.
Mkuranga parliamentary candidate and Works Minister, Abdallah Ulega noted that the government’s flood-control investments have already begun transforming previously vulnerable neighbourhoods, while easing transport and boosting local business operations.