THE government has directed water authorities nationwide to ensure consistent water supply in rural areas, aiming to eliminate long-standing shortages. Minister for Water Juma Aweso issued the directive yesterday in Dodoma while handing over modern groundwater research equipment worth 5.2 billion/- to eight water basin authorities.

The equipment, purchased with COVID-19 recovery funds, is intended to address water supply challenges in underserved regions. Aweso stressed that over 1,500 villages previously without reliable water access will   now be reached.

“We expect no more excuses from water experts. Use this equipment to conduct detailed and accurate research,” he said. He noted that past claims of water unavailability in some areas had been will be  history once proper research was conducted, adding that such misinformation should now end.

Dr George Lugomela, the Ministry’s director of Water Resources, said the equipment will detect fractures in underground rock layers, assess aquifers, and map water-bearing structures up to 1,000 metres deep.

 The tools have been distributed to the Tanganyika, Victoria, Wami-Ruvu, Rukwa, Ruvuma, Rufiji, Pangani, and central basins, while the remaining equipment will be retained at ministry headquarters.

 Permanent Secretary Mwajuma Waziri thanked the government for the investment, stating it will significantly boost the professionalism and effectiveness of groundwater research in Tanzania.