Tanzanian Alumnus, Patrick Nzamba improving water supply and sanitation in five communities

Tanzanian Managing Director of the Singida Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Authority, Patrick Nzamba (Masters in Water Resources Management, Adelaide University, 2013) implemented the first phase of the Five Town Water Supply and Sanitation Improvement Program between July 2014 to July 2016. With a focus in Mtwara, Lindi, Babati, Kigoma and Sumbawanga, the projects objective included provision of safe domestic water supplies and appropriate sanitation and hygiene practices, services vital to the health of rural Tanzania.

With Award acquired skills and knowledge, Patrick designed water and sanitation infrastructures and project managed the construction of approved facilities. “The Project is crucial for my country’s development as it increase access to clean and safe water as well as improved sanitation at household level and public places. As a Project Engineer, I oversaw the planning and giving out detailed engineering designs that will serve the community for fifteen years to come, that is up to 2030.”

Patrick says different stakeholders were involved in the project such as Municipal Councils and five urban communities as well as national government and an international donor.  “The urban community from the five towns are the beneficiaries of the Project. After completion of Phase Two in 2018, water supply coverage will be increased by 30% and improved sanitation services will rise by 37%. The impact of the project to the community is substantial, particularly for school children, women and elderly people who are now able to access water kiosks and improved public toilets. Following completion of this Project, it is anticipated to that 177,500 people will directly benefit from improved water supply and sanitation services.”

Australia Awards recipients such as Patrick return home with new ideas and knowledge, and the ability to make a significant contribution to their home countries as leaders in Priority sectors.  Priority fields of study are agreed between the Government of Australia and partner governments in Africa, with a focus on areas in which Australia has world-class expertise.