At Engineers Without Borders - Tanzania (EWB-TA), we believe that meaningful collaboration with the community and local authorities is key to creating safe water solutions. Before starting any project, we formalize our partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the community, RUWASA (the Regional Water Authority), and district authorities. This MOU serves as a guiding document, detailing the operational roles and responsibilities of each party involved and setting a clear framework for shared commitment to the project's success.
Signing of MOU Agreement, September 2021 (Image by EWB-TA)
The primary goal of this approach is to ensure that every project aligns with the needs and priorities of the Babati District, where our installations are taking place. By involving the community and local leadership from the start, we engage the right focal points to maintain and eventually take over the systems. Our partnership with RUWASA and district authorities provides us with local insights and the authority needed to implement projects efficiently and sustainably.
Our MOU outlines not only the objectives of the project - such as installing a water system at a Primary School in the ward - but also defines the roles of each partner throughout the project lifecycle. For instance, while EWB-TA oversees the technical aspects of installation, local authorities assist with community engagement and support for long-term system maintenance. This division of responsibilities ensures that projects are well-maintained and continue to serve the community effectively long after installation.
Collaboration with local authorities is key to sustainability (Image by EWB-TA)
Collaboration doesn't end when the system is operational. We remain in close contact with our partners to monitor the water systems and provide support as needed. This ongoing cooperation strengthens our relationship with the community and helps us improve our approach for future projects. Together, through clearly defined roles and shared responsibilities, we’re working to make clean water access a reality for communities across the Babati District.
Interested in learning more? Feel free to get in touch!
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