Community-Based Water Supply Organizations (CBWSOs) in Iringa District have received a major boost following a capacity-building initiative aimed at enhancing their effectiveness in managing rural water services.
The training, organized by the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA), brought together leaders and board members from various CBWSOs in the district for a full-day session focused on improving governance, service delivery, and accountability.
Opening the training, Iringa District Commissioner Komred Kheri James underscored the government’s commitment to empowering local institutions to manage water infrastructure sustainably.
He emphasized that CBWSOs are at the heart of rural water service delivery and must be well-equipped to meet the growing needs of their communities.
“You have been entrusted with an important responsibility,” he told the participants. “I urge you to carry out your duties with transparency, discipline, and full adherence to the law. Follow the established guidelines and procedures to serve your communities effectively.”
Komred James highlighted several key areas that CBWSOs must focus on, including ensuring regular maintenance of water infrastructure, timely collection of user fees, and transparent financial management.
He reminded participants that good governance is essential to the sustainability of rural water systems.
“Funds collected from water users must be deposited in recognized bank accounts and used according to proper financial procedures,” he stressed. “There should be no room for mismanagement.”
In addition to the training, RUWASA also distributed essential tools and materials to help the CBWSO leaders perform their roles more efficiently.
The sessions covered a range of topics including leadership skills, infrastructure maintenance, community engagement, and financial accountability.
The training attracted wide participation, including ward and village officials who work closely with the CBWSOs. Their involvement is expected to strengthen coordination and ensure that water services reach more rural households.
One of the participants, Mary Mgeni from Nduli Village, expressed her gratitude for the initiative. “This training has opened our eyes. We now understand the importance of transparency and teamwork in managing water services,” she said.
With strengthened leadership and clearer understanding of their roles, CBWSO boards in Iringa District are now better positioned to ensure sustainable, community-centered water service delivery contributing to improved health and livelihoods across the region.