Water resources management in Tanzania-Pangani river catchment

Abstract

The need for a well functioning water resources management system in Tanzania is essential for further development of the country. The poorly developed water resources management combined with a fast growing population and industry, increased agriculture- and hydropower production cause uncertainty and conflicts for the potential use of the water in the future both with respect to quantity and quality. NIVA has carried out a project in Tanzania, with a focus on Pangani Basin, to study 1) the water resources management at the central, regional and local level and 2) the water quality- and pollution problems, user interests and conflicts among the user groups. The major conflict in Pangani is between irrigation and hydropower production. The abstracted water for different purposes is far exceeding the demands, due to low efficiency in the traditional furrows and misuse of water. The users impact on the environment are also causing conflicts in the basin. Outlets of municipal waste water and waste water from industry are in conflict with downstream users and makes the water unsuitable for other purposes, especially for drinking water, irrigation of crop and food and beverage industry. A cost efficient pollution action plan should be prepared, and there is need for a regular water quality monitoring program. Re-organising of water recources management is necessary for clear resposibility, avoid double work and to improve co-operation and co-ordination between departments which are involved. Other accompanying measures can also be implemented in the Tanzanian Water Resourses Management system to reduce the conflicts between the user groups.