The Water Resource Management Act

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CHAPTER 331
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT
[PRINCIPAL LEGISLATION]
Arrangement of Sections
Section Title
part i
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. Short title.
2. Application.
3. Interpretation.
part ii
PRINCIPLES AND OBJECTIVES OF WATER
RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
4. Objective of water resources management.
5. Principles of sustainable water resources management.
6. Promotion of National Water Policy, 2002.
7. Duty to protect water resources.
8. Strategic environmental assessment.
9. Environmental Impact Assessment.
part iii
OWNERSHIP AND CONTROL OF WATER
10. Ownership and management of water resources vested in state.
11. Right to use of water for domestic purposes.
12. Right to rainwater harvesting or use of recycled water.
part iv
MANAGEMENT OF WATER RESOURCES
(a) Minister
13. Powers of Minister.
14. Delegation of powers of Minister.
(b) The Director of Water Resources
15. Director.
16. Functions of Director.

a) Minister
13. Powers of Minister.
14. Delegation of powers of Minister.
(b) The Director of Water Resources
15. Director.
16. Functions of Director.

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462
17. Appointment of authorised officer. 18. Powers and duties of authorised officer. 19. Restoration of orders. (c) National Water Board
20. Establishment of National Water Board. 21. Function of National Water Board. (d) Basin Water Boards
22. Establishment of Basin Water Board. 23. Powers and functions of Basin Water Board. 24. Staff of Basin Water Boards. 25. Funds of Basin Water Board. 26. Annual and supplementary budget. 27. Accounts and audit. 28. Annual report. (e) Catchment and Sub-catchment Water Committees
29. Establishment of Catchment and Sub-catchment
Water Committees. 30. Appointment of Catchment Water Officer. part v
INTERGRATED WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLANS
31. Preparation of Water Resources Management Plan. part vi
PROTECTION OF WATER RESOURCES
(a) Water Resources Classification and Reserve
32. Classification of water resources and resource
quality objectives. 33. Determination of reserve. 34. Prohibition of human activities near water source.

lassification of water resources and resource
quality objectives. 33. Determination of reserve. 34. Prohibition of human activities near water source.

(b) Restrictions During Drought and Natural Disaster
35. Position when volume is inadequate to satisfy all permits
granted in respect thereof. 36. Suspension or variation of water use permits on
account of drought and natural disasters. (c) Protected Zones
37. Establishment of protected zones.

6. Suspension or variation of water use permits on
account of drought and natural disasters. (c) Protected Zones
37. Establishment of protected zones.

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THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(d) Groundwater Controlled Areas
38. Declaration of ground water controlled areas. (e) Prevention of Pollution
39. Prevention of pollution. 40. Basin Water Board may take measures to remedy
effects of pollution. 41. Control of emergency pollution incidents. 42. Duty and emergency powers of Basin Water Boards. part vii
WATER ABSTRACTION AND USE
(a) Water Use Permits
43. Uses that are subject to water use permit. 44. Use of water contrary to permit. 45. Use of water without permit. 46. Grant of water use permit. 47. Issuance of water use permits not to imply guaranteed
quality and quantity. 48. Permit may be made appurtenant to land. 49. Conditions implied in all water use permits. 50. Position when Volume inadequate to satisfy all permits
granted in respect thereof. 51. Situations where quantity or duration is unspecified. (b) Recording of Unregistered Rights
52. Recording of unregistered rights. 53. Incidents of customary water. 54. Application for water use permits by customary water users.

istered Rights
52. Recording of unregistered rights. 53. Incidents of customary water. 54. Application for water use permits by customary water users.

(c) Groundwater Permit
55. Duty to apply for ground water permit to construct
or enlarge wells. 56. Offence in respect of failure to obtain ground water permit. 57. Distance limits for sinking of wells or boreholes. 58. Submission of data to Basin Water Board. 59. Ground water encountered in mining operations. 60. Obligation to seal well no longer in use. 61. Waste of ground water. 62. Powers of Basin Water Board in relation to aquifers. 63. Power to regulate profession of groundwater drilling.

in use. 61. Waste of ground water. 62. Powers of Basin Water Board in relation to aquifers. 63. Power to regulate profession of groundwater drilling.

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464
(d) Discharge permit
64. Discharge permit. 65. Offences in respect to water pollution. 66. Water quality and effluent standards. 67. Conditions to be attached to discharge permit. 68. Provisional discharge permit. 69. Prohibition on discharge to ground water. (e) General Provisions Relating to Water Use, Groundwater and Discharge Permits
70. Entitlement to existing right or permit. 71. Duration of water use permit or discharge permit. 72. Variation of permit with consent. 73. Declaration for public purpose. 74. Transfer of permits. 75. Conditions to be attached on water use and
discharge permits. 76. Application procedure. 77. Determination for breach of conditions of permit. 78. Notice to show cause for misuse of permit. (f) Water Register
79. Keeping of Water Register by Basin Water Boards. 80. Keeping of National Water Register. part viii
WATER USERS ASSOCIATIONS
81. Establishment and purposes of water users association. 82. Approval and registration of water users association. 83.

viii
WATER USERS ASSOCIATIONS
81. Establishment and purposes of water users association. 82. Approval and registration of water users association. 83.

Registration of water users association. 84. Powers of Basin Water Board to give directions. part ix
PROVISIONS RELATED TO WATER RESOURCES
MANAGEMENT WORKS
85. Powers of Basin Water Boards to undertake works. 86. Powers of basin water boards in respect of permits
conditional on construction of works.

ORKS
85. Powers of Basin Water Boards to undertake works. 86. Powers of basin water boards in respect of permits
conditional on construction of works.

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THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
part x
DAM SAFETY AND FLOOD MANAGEMENT
87. Interpretation. 88. Blockage of water courses. 89. Control measures for dams with safety risk. 90. Responsibilities of approved professional persons. 91. Registration of dams with safety risk. 92. Factors to be considered in declaring dams with safety risk. 93. Exemptions. 94. Review of dam facilities. 95. Regulations regarding dam safety and prevention of flood risk. 96. Measures for flood mitigation and control. part xi
FINANCIAL PROVISIONS
97. Water abstraction charges. 98. Use of water charges. 99. Summary procedure. part xii
TRANS-BOUNDARY WATER
100. Policies, strategies and legislation in respect to
trans-boundary waters. 101. Minister and management of trans-boundary waters. 102. Collection of data and information on trans-boundary
waters. part xiii
OFFENCES, PENALTIES AND JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS
103. Offences to assult, threaten, resist, hinder or delay an
authorised officer. 104. Miscellaneous offences and penalties. 105. Water pollution. 106.

03. Offences to assult, threaten, resist, hinder or delay an
authorised officer. 104. Miscellaneous offences and penalties. 105. Water pollution. 106.

Compounding of offences. 107. Compensation for harm, loss or damage suffered. 108. General penalty.

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466
part xiv
APPEALS
109. Appeal regulations.
part xv
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
110. Compensation.
111. Service of notice.
112. Civil liability not to be affected.
113. Indemnity and liability.
114. Power to make regulations.
part xvi
TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS
115. Repeal and savings provisions.
116. Transfer of responsibilities to boards and committees.
117. Transitional provisions.
SCHEDULE

ONAL PROVISIONS
115. Repeal and savings provisions.
116. Transfer of responsibilities to boards and committees.
117. Transitional provisions.
SCHEDULE

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PART I
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. This Act may be cited as the Water Resources Management
Act. 2. This Act shall apply to Mainland Tanzania. 3. In this Act, unless the context requires otherwise-
“appellate authority” means the authority pursuant to
section 109;
“aquatic ecosystem” means those physical and biological
features, including land, water, the atmosphere, flora and
fauna, which are within, under, over, in contact with, or
sustained by the water in water bodies;
“authorised officer” means a person authorised as such in
accordance with section 17;
“Basin Water Board” means a Basin Water Board established
under section 22;
“beneficial use of water” means the use of water for social,
economic and environmental purposes including
Short title
Application
Interpretation
Act No. 8 of 2022 s.

of water” means the use of water for social,
economic and environmental purposes including
Short title
Application
Interpretation
Act No. 8 of 2022 s.

3
CHAPTER 331
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT
An Act to provide for institutional and legal framework for sustainable
management and development of water resources; to outline principles for
water resources management; to provide for the prevention and control of
water pollution; to provide for participation of stakeholders and general
public in implementation of the National Water Policy, repeal of the Water
Utilisation (Control and Regulation) Act and to provide for related matters. [1st August, 2009]
[GN. No. 235 of 2009]
Acts Nos. 11 of 2009
8 of 2022

r
Utilisation (Control and Regulation) Act and to provide for related matters. [1st August, 2009]
[GN. No. 235 of 2009]
Acts Nos. 11 of 2009
8 of 2022

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All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E.

2023]
468
domestic water supply, irrigation, generation of electric
power, livestock watering and dipping, industrial
production, fishing, and the maintenance of the aquatic
ecosystem;
“catchment” means the surface area and underground
stratum of land that collects water to supply a source of
water;
“Catchment Water Committee” means a committee established
under section 29 for purposes of managing a catchment;
“court” means primary court, district court, resident
magistrate’s court or the High Court;
“customary water rights” means the rights and practices in
relation to water resources that have been practised by
communities or individuals since time immemorial in
the belief that they create binding rights and obligations;
“Director” means the Director responsible for water
resources as provided for under section 15;
“discharge permit” means a permit to discharge effluents
from any source registered in the water register under the
provisions of this Act;
“domestic purposes” includes the use of water solely for the
purpose of meeting household and domestic needs and
excludes any commercial activities;
“easement” means a right to enter on the land of another
for the purpose of constructing or maintaining works
thereon or storing water thereon or carrying water
under, through or over such land or for all or any of such
purposes;
“effluent” includes any flowing-out or fluid material
discharged from domestic or industrial wastes systems
which, by reason of its quality, quantity or characteristics,
is likely to impair the beneficial use of receiving water by
adversely affecting its natural state;
“effluent standards” means the standard for treatment
and discharge of effluent promulgated under the
Environmental Management Act;Cap.

natural state;
“effluent standards” means the standard for treatment
and discharge of effluent promulgated under the
Environmental Management Act;Cap.

191

191

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THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E.

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THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E.

2023]
“effluent treatment plant” means any device or structure designed
for the treatment of effluent removing matters in suspension,
detoxicating or stabilising biodegradable organic impurities
so as to prevent the occurrence of secondary decomposition
upon the effluent mingling with water;
“groundwater” means water naturally stored or flowing
below the surface of the ground and not apparent on the
surface of the ground;
“Groundwater Permit” means any permit to construct, sink,
enlarge, or deepen a well or borehole, registered in the
Water Register under the provisions of this Act;
“Groundwater Controlled Area” means an area declared to
be a Groundwater Controlled Area under section 38;
“irrigation” means the use of water for the purpose of
improving productivity of agricultural crops per unit of
land and per unit of water and thereby contributing to
increased food security;
“land drainage” means providing for disposal of excess
water on land and protection of water against flooding by
structural or non-structural means in a manner required
by a water resources management plan or directions by
the Basin Water Board;
“Minister” means the Minister responsible for water resources;
“Ministry” means a Ministry responsible for water;
“National Water Board” means the National Water Board
established by section 20;
“pollution” in relation to water resources, means any direct
or indirect alteration of the physical, thermal, chemical
or biological properties of the water resource so as to
make it-
(a) less fit for any beneficial purpose for which it is or may
reasonably be expected to be used; or
(b) harmful or potentially harmful to-
(i) the welfare, health or safety of human beings; or
(ii) any aquatic or non-aquatic life or property; or the
environment;

or potentially harmful to-
(i) the welfare, health or safety of human beings; or
(ii) any aquatic or non-aquatic life or property; or the
environment;

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2023]
470
“protected area” means an area such as nature reserve, game
protected area or reserve, forest reserve, marine park,
national park, watershed, or any such areas so Gazetted
pursuant to any Act;
“protected zone” means a protected zone established under
section 37;
“rainwater harvesting” means a technology used for
collecting and storing rainwater from land surfaces, rock
catchments or roof tops using simple techniques such as
jars and pots as well as more complex techniques such as
charcos dams;
“recycling” means the re-use of water, with or without
treatment, before the water is discharged to surface waters
or groundwaters;
“reserve “means the quantity and quality of water required for-
(a) satisfying basic human needs by securing a basic water
supply for people who are now or who shall in the
reasonably near future, be-
(i) relying upon;
(ii) taking water from; or
(iii) being supplied from the relevant water resources;
and
(b) protecting aquatic ecosystem in order to secure
ecologically sustainable development and use of the
relevant water resources;
“stream” means the water contained in a watercourse and
includes a river;
“Sub-catchment Water Committee” means a Committee
established under section 29 for purposes of managing a
sub-catchment;
“surface water” means all water flowing over the surface
of the ground, or contained in a spring or natural lake
or reservoir or swamp and all water contained directly
underneath a river bed;
“sustainable management” means managing the use,
development and protection of water resources in a

l water contained directly
underneath a river bed;
“sustainable management” means managing the use,
development and protection of water resources in a

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THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E.

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THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E.

2023]
manner, or at a rate, which provides for the social,
economic, sanitation and cultural well-being of the
people, while safeguarding the life-supporting capacity
of water for the ecosystem, both in the present and the
future;
“trans-boundary waters” means the water resources
contained within drainage or river basins which cross the
geographical boundaries of, and are shared with more
than one sovereign country;
“underground strata” means any strata at whatever level or
distance below the surface;
“water” means all water flowing over the surface of the
ground, or contained in or flowing in or from, a spring or
stream or natural lake or reservoir or swamp, or beneath
a watercourse and all water from underground strata;
“water authority” means the water supply and sanitation
authority established under the Water Supply and
Sanitation Act;
“water basin” means an area of land in relation to any river
or other water source as described under this Act;
“water management institution” means the National Water
Board, a Basin Water Board or a Catchment or Sub-
catchment Water Committee;
“water register” means the register established and
maintained pursuant to section 83;
“water resources” means a water course, surface water,
ground water and estuary water;
“water resources management plan” means a plan prepared
pursuant to Part V;
“water source” means-
(a) a river, tributary, estuary, lake, swamp, marsh or other
wetland;
(b) an aquifer or a spring;
(c) sea waters and interface between sea water and fresh
water; and
(d) a dam, pond or reservoir;
Cap.

h or other
wetland;
(b) an aquifer or a spring;
(c) sea waters and interface between sea water and fresh
water; and
(d) a dam, pond or reservoir;
Cap.

272

272

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472
“water use permit” means any permit to use or divert, dam,
store, abstractor use water from surface or underground
water source registered in the water register under the
provisions of this Act, and may also mean a water right
issued under this Act;
“water users association” means an entity established by the
users of water resources within a specified area pursuant
to Part VIII;
“works” include canals, channels, reservoirs, embankments,
weirs, dams, wells, boreholes and other works constructed
for or in connection with the diversion, damming, storage
or abstraction of water, or for the protection of rivers,
lakes, or any other water sources, or for the conservation
of water, or for drainage or for the use of water for any
purposes or for the conservation of rainfall.

y other water sources, or for the conservation
of water, or for drainage or for the use of water for any
purposes or for the conservation of rainfall.

PART II
OBJECTIVES AND PRINCIPLES OF
WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
4.–(1) The objective of this Act is to ensure that the nation’s
water resources are protected, used, developed, conserved,
managed and controlled in ways which take into account the
following fundamental principles, including-
(a) meeting the basic human needs of present and future
generations;
(b) promoting equitable access to water and the principle
that water is essential for life and that safe drinking
water is a basic human right;
(c) promoting the efficient, sustainable and beneficial use
of water in the public interest;
(d) facilitating social economic development;
(e) promoting stakeholders’ involvement in water
resources management at all levels especially by
ensuring decentralisation to the lowest possible level
Objective of
water resources
management

water
resources management at all levels especially by
ensuring decentralisation to the lowest possible level
Objective of
water resources
management

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THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
of government, consistent with available capacity at
such level;
(f) protecting biological diversity especially the aquatic
ecosystems;
(g) providing for systems for managing the growing
demand for water use through integrated planning and
management of surface and groundwater resources, in
ways which incorporate economic, environmental and
social dimensions in the planning process;
(h) preventing and controlling pollution and degradation
of water resources;
(i) providing implementation of international obligations
stipulated under international legal instruments to
which the United Republic is a party; and
(j) promoting dam safety security and the management of
water related disasters. (2) For achieving the objective set under subsection (1),
suitable institutions with appropriate stakeholders and gender
representation shall be established. 5.

hieving the objective set under subsection (1),
suitable institutions with appropriate stakeholders and gender
representation shall be established. 5.

A person exercising jurisdiction under this Act shall,
in relation to any decision, order, exercise of any power or
performance of any function, be guided by the following
principles of sustainable integrated water resources
management and sustainable development-
(a) the precautionary principle;
(b) polluter pays principle;
(c) the principle of eco-system integrity;
(d) the principle of public participation in the development
policies, plans and processes for the management of
the water resources;
(e) the principle of international co-operation in
management of environmental resources shared by
two or more states; and
(f ) the principle of common but differentiated
responsibilities. Principles of
sustainable
water resources
management

ared by
two or more states; and
(f ) the principle of common but differentiated
responsibilities. Principles of
sustainable
water resources
management

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474
6.–(1) A person exercising powers under this Act or under any
other written law having a bearing on the provision of water
resources management shall strive to promote and have regard
to the National Water Policy, in respect of water resources
management. (2) Subject to subsection (1), the preference for water
allocation shall be for-
(a) domestic purposes;
(b) environmental reserve; and
(c) socio economic activities depending on the availability
of water resources. 7. A person residing in Mainland Tanzania shall have a stake
and a duty to safeguard and protect water resources and to
inform the relevant authority of any activity and phenomenon
that may affect the quantity and quality of the water resources
significantly. 8. Where water programmes and development plans are
prepared, the Director shall carry out a Strategic Environmental
Assessment in accordance with the procedure and regulations
made under the Environmental Management Act. 9.

shall carry out a Strategic Environmental
Assessment in accordance with the procedure and regulations
made under the Environmental Management Act. 9.

A proposed development in a water resource area or
watershed to which this Act applies, whether that development
is proposed by or is to be implemented by a person or
organisation in the public or private sector shall carry out an
Environmental Impact Assessment in accordance with the
provisions of the Environmental Management Act. PART III
OWNERSHIP AND CONTROL OF WATER
10.–(1) All water resources in Mainland Tanzania shall
continue to be public water and vested in the President as the
trustee for and on behalf of citizens. Promotion of
National Water
Policy, 2002
Duty to protect
water resources
Strategic
environmental
assessment
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 4
Cap. 191
Environmental
Impact
Assessment
Cap. 191
Ownership and
management of
water resources
vested in state

mental
assessment
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 4
Cap. 191
Environmental
Impact
Assessment
Cap. 191
Ownership and
management of
water resources
vested in state

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THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(2) Without prejudice to subsection (1), the President shall,
through various designated institutions, manage the water
resources for the benefit of the people of Mainland Tanzania. 11.–(1) The powers to confer a right to the use of water from
any water resource is hereby vested in the Minister save to the
extent that it is alienated by any other written or customary law. (2) Notwithstanding the provision of subsection (1), a
person having lawful access to any watercourse may abstract
and use the same for domestic purposes without a Water Use
Permit issued under this Act:
Provided that, nothing in this section shall be construed as
authorising the construction of any works by any person.

se
Permit issued under this Act:
Provided that, nothing in this section shall be construed as
authorising the construction of any works by any person.

(3) Notwithstanding the provision of subsection (1), a person
being the legal owner or occupier of any land may construct a
shallow hand-dug well and use the water for domestic purposes
without a Groundwater Permit issued under this Act subject to
any limitation on the depth of such wells in any area as may be
prescribed in regulations by the Minister. 12.–(1) The owner or occupier of any land may construct any
works for rainwater harvesting or for recycling of used water
other than in a river or stream and abstract and use the water
so conserved or recycled for domestic purposes without a
Water Use Permit issued under this Act. (2) Notwithstanding the generality of subsection (1), no
works for the purpose of rainwater harvesting shall have the
capacity greater than the capacity prescribed in regulations by
the Minister. PART IV
MANAGEMENT OF WATER RESOURCES
(a) Minister
13.–(1) The Minister shall be responsible for national policy
and strategy formulation and for ensuring the execution by
authorities or persons under the control of the Minister of
their functions connected with the implementation of this Act.

r ensuring the execution by
authorities or persons under the control of the Minister of
their functions connected with the implementation of this Act.

Right to use
of water for
domestic
purposes
Right to rainwater
harvesting or use
of recycled water
Powers of
Minister

Right to use
of water for
domestic
purposes
Right to rainwater
harvesting or use
of recycled water
Powers of
Minister

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476
(2) Without prejudice to subsection (1), the Minister shall-
(a) oversee policy and legislative aspects of integrated
water resources management;
(b) appoint members of the National Water Board;
(c) establish basin water boards;
(d) provide for supervision and coordination of basin
water boards;
(e) facilitate sectoral coordination and coordinated
planning on aspects that may impact on water resources;
(f) ensure and safeguard national interest on trans-
boundary water resources;
(g) formulate regulations, technical standards and
guidelines for purposes of implementing the provisions
of this Act;
(h) ensure sustainable development of water resources of
national interest; and
(i) provide for the safe construction of and management
of dams. (3) The Minister shall be assisted in the discharge of his
duties under this Act by the Director. 14.

the safe construction of and management
of dams. (3) The Minister shall be assisted in the discharge of his
duties under this Act by the Director. 14.

The Minister may, by order published in the Gazette and
subject to such conditions as may be imposed, delegate the
performance of any function stipulated under this Act to-
(a) the Director or any official of the Ministry;
(b) any other Ministry or department of the Government;
(c) a local government authority;
(d) an agency established pursuant to the Executive Agencies
Act or any other written law; or
(e) any institution established under this Act. (b) The Director of Water Resources
15.–(1) There shall be appointed by the Minister the Director
from among public servants. (2) The Director shall be the advisor to the Government on
all matters pertaining to water resources. Delegation
of powers of
Minister
Cap. 245
Director

) The Director shall be the advisor to the Government on
all matters pertaining to water resources. Delegation
of powers of
Minister
Cap. 245
Director

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THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(3) Where the Director is required or empowered by this Act
to make a determination affecting or likely to affect the rights
of any person or the opportunity for any person to undertake
any activity shall give that person reasons for such decision. (4) There shall be appointed such officers who shall have
the duty to ensure the efficient, effective and sustainable
economical management and supervision of water resources
in accordance with the provisions of this Act. (5) Officers appointed under subsection (4) shall be allocated
or delegated such functions and shall be located in such offices
or institutions as the Director shall consider that the officers
contribute to the proper management of water resources. 16.

e located in such offices
or institutions as the Director shall consider that the officers
contribute to the proper management of water resources. 16.

On matters pertaining to the sustainable management of
water resources, the Director shall-
(a) co-ordinate activities of Basin Water Boards;
(b) conduct national water resources management
planning and an implementation strategy;
(c) oversee water basin planning and management;
(d) integrate inter-sectoral coordination and planning on
aspects that may have impact on water resources;
(e) evaluate existing and proposed policies and activities
of the Government ministries and agencies relating
to the allocation, management and protection of
water resources and, on the basis of that, formulate
policies and programmes aiming at management and
development of water resources and control of water
pollution;
(f ) ensure that water resource management operates
according to the principles of environmental
sustainability;
(g) supervise and co-ordinate the activities of Basin Water
Boards and serve as a link channel of communication
between these bodies and the Government;
(h) resolve inter-sectoral and inter-basin conflicts;
(i) supervise and coordinate data collection and national
water resources assessments;
Functions of
Director

inter-sectoral and inter-basin conflicts;
(i) supervise and coordinate data collection and national
water resources assessments;
Functions of
Director

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
478
(j) maintain a National Water Register in accordance with
section 80;
(k) determine national investment priorities and financing
patterns on water resources;
(l) co-ordinate and harmonise externally funded projects
and programmes affecting water resources;
(m) facilitate the conduct of water audits and provide
technical supporting terms of information tools, basin
models and decision support systems;
(n) recommend to the Minister legislative measures for
the management of water resources and the effective
control of water pollution;
(o) prepare annual reports on the state of water resources
in the country; and
(p) ensure protection of water sources of national interest. 17. The Basin Water Board may, in writing, appoint any suitable
personas an authorised officer to perform the functions
contemplated in section18.

st. 17. The Basin Water Board may, in writing, appoint any suitable
personas an authorised officer to perform the functions
contemplated in section18.

18.–(1) An authorised officer may, at any reasonable time and
without prior notice, enter or cross property with the necessary
persons, vehicles, equipment and materials in order to carry
out routine inspections of the use of water or discharge of
effluents under any authorisation. (2) An authorised officer may enter a property with the
necessary persons, vehicles, equipment and materials after-
(a) giving reasonable notice to the owner or occupier of
the property, which notice shall state the purpose of the
proposed entry; and
(b) obtaining the consent of the owner or occupier of the
property, in order to-
(i) clean, repair, maintain, remove or demolish
works operated by a water resources management
institution;
(ii) undertake any works necessary for cleaning,
clearing, stabilising and repairing the water source
and protecting the resource quality;
Appointment of
authorised officer
Powers and duties
of authorised
officer

bilising and repairing the water source
and protecting the resource quality;
Appointment of
authorised officer
Powers and duties
of authorised
officer

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.479
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(iii) establish the suitability of any water source or site
for constructing a water works;
(iv) undertake any work necessary to comply with
an obligation imposed on any person under this
Act, where that person has failed to fulfil that
obligation; and
(v) erect any structure and install and operate any
equipment on a temporary or permanent basis for
monitoring and gathering information on water
resources.

ect any structure and install and operate any
equipment on a temporary or permanent basis for
monitoring and gathering information on water
resources.

(3) An authorised officer may, at any reasonable time and
without prior notice, on the authority of a warrant, enter a
property with the necessary persons, vehicles, equipment and
materials and perform any action necessary to-
(a) investigate whether any condition attached to any
permit issued in accordance with this Act, or any notice
or directive is being contravened;
(b) investigate whether any information supplied in
connection with water use or effluent discharge is
accurate; or
(c) carry out any of the activities referred to in subsection
(2) where the consent of the owner or occupier has
been withheld. (4) A warrant referred to in subsection (3) may be issued by
a judge or magistrate who has jurisdiction in the area where
the property in question is situated. (5) Where a warrant is likely to be issued and if applied
for but the delay involved in obtaining a warrant is likely to
defeat the object of an inspection in terms of subsection (3),
an authorised officer may enter a property without a warrant.

ng a warrant is likely to
defeat the object of an inspection in terms of subsection (3),
an authorised officer may enter a property without a warrant.

(6) An authorised officer entering a property in terms of
this section shall, at the request of any person on that property,
identify himself and present a letter of authorisation issued
under section 17. (7) Notwithstanding any provision of this section, an
authorised officer may not, under any circumstances, enter

uthorisation issued
under section 17. (7) Notwithstanding any provision of this section, an
authorised officer may not, under any circumstances, enter

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
480
a dwelling without the consent of the occupier or without a
warrant authorising entry. 19. For the purpose of environmental management in relation
to water resources where need arises for imposition of a
restoration order, the Director or the Basin Water Director
may request the National Environment Management Council
to issue an environmental restoration order in accordance with
the Environmental Management Act. (c) National Water Board
20.–(1) There is established the National Water Board. (2) The National Water Board shall be an advisory board to
the Minister on matters related to multi-sectoral coordination
in integrated water resources planning and management as
well as resolution of national and international water conflicts. (3) The National Water Board shall consist of members
specified in the First Schedule. (4) The Minister shall have powers to dissolve the Board. 21.

. (3) The National Water Board shall consist of members
specified in the First Schedule. (4) The Minister shall have powers to dissolve the Board. 21.

The National Water Board shall have the following powers
and functions to-
(a) examine any matter which may be referred to it by the
Minister or any sector Ministry relating to sustainable
management of water resources and shall recommend
to the Minister or the sector Ministry such action as is
necessary for achieving the objectives of this Act;
(b) advise on coordination and harmonisation of externally
funded projects and programmes affecting water
resources;
(c) advise on integration of inter-sectoral water resources
assessment and planning;
(d) advise on co-ordination of basin planning and
management;
(e) advise on inter-sectoral or inter-basin conflicts;
(f) advise on investment priorities and financing patterns;
Restoration of
orders
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 2
Cap. 191
Establishment of
National Water
Board
Function of
National Water
Board
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 5

s;
Restoration of
orders
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 2
Cap. 191
Establishment of
National Water
Board
Function of
National Water
Board
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 5

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.481
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(g) advise on inter-basin water transfer;
(h) advise on trans-boundary water resources management;
(i) recommend to the Minister legislative measures for
the management of water resources and the effective
control of water pollution;
(j) liase with the Director on technical matters;
(k) prepare the bi-annual report on the state of the water
resources; and
(l) perform such other water resources advisory functions
as the Minister may deem necessary. (d) Basin Water Boards
22.–(1) The Minister shall, by order published in the Gazette,
establish a Basin Water Board in respect of each water basin. (2) A Basin Water Board established under subsection (1)
shall be a body corporate with perpetual succession and a
common seal and shall have power in its corporate name to sue
and be sued and, in the exercise of its powers and functions,
to do and permit all such things as may lawfully be done or
permitted by a body corporate in furtherance of its objects.

of its powers and functions,
to do and permit all such things as may lawfully be done or
permitted by a body corporate in furtherance of its objects.

(3) The powers and functions of the Basin Water Board shall
be exercised and performed under the direction of the Board. (4) The Second Schedule shall have effect in respect to the
membership and procedure of the Basin Water Board. 23. The Basin Water Boards shall have the following powers
and functions to-
(a) prepare basin water resources management plans,
project budgets and an implementation strategy;
(b) integrate district plans into basin water resources
management plans;
(c) provide guidelines and standards for construction and
maintenance of water source structures;
(d) monitor, evaluate and approve construction and
maintenance of water source structures;
Establishment
of Basin Water
Board
Powers and
functions of Basin
Water Board
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 6

uction and
maintenance of water source structures;
Establishment
of Basin Water
Board
Powers and
functions of Basin
Water Board
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 6

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E.

2023]
482
(e) collect, process and analyse data for water resources
management;
(f) maintain and update assessments of the availability
and potential demand for water resources;
(g) approve, issue and revoke water use and discharge
permits;
(h) maintain a Water Register in accordance with section 79;
(i) monitor and enforce water use and discharge permits
and pollution prevention measures;
(j) resolve intra-basin conflicts;
(k) implement water resources management projects and
programmes;
(l) co-ordinate the inter-sectoral water resources
management at the basin level and serve as a channel of
communication between these sectors and water users
in general;
(m) advise the Director on technical aspects of trans-
boundary water issues in the basin;
(n) appoint a Chairman and members of the Catchment
and Sub-catchment Committees;
(o) prepare reports on the state of water resources in a basin;
(p) create awareness to stakeholders on matters relating to
water resources conservation and management; and
(q) perform any other functions necessary for the better
implementation of the provisions of this Act.

ater resources conservation and management; and
(q) perform any other functions necessary for the better
implementation of the provisions of this Act.

24.–(1) There shall be a Basin Water Director of the Basin Water
Board who shall be appointed by the Minister in consultation
with Basin Water Board on such terms and conditions of
service as the Board may determine. (2) A person shall not qualify to be appointed as a Basin
Water Director unless such person-
(a) holds a degree in the field of hydrology, hydrogeology,
environmental engineering, civil engineering, water
resources engineering or a degree in any other related field;
(b) possesses at least five years experience in managerial
position or such other additional qualification;
Staff of Basin
Water Boards
Act No. 8 of 2022 ss. 2
and 7

t least five years experience in managerial
position or such other additional qualification;
Staff of Basin
Water Boards
Act No. 8 of 2022 ss. 2
and 7

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.483
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(c) has a demonstrated knowledge and experience in the
water sector; and
(d) possesses any other criteria as may be specified in that
behalf. (3) The Basin Water Director shall be the principal officer
of the Board and, subject to the directions of the Basin Water
Board, shall be responsible for the management of the affairs
of the Basin Water Board. (4) The Basin Water Board may appoint such officers and
other staff as may be necessary for the exercise and performance
of its powers and functions upon such terms and conditions as
it may determine.

s and
other staff as may be necessary for the exercise and performance
of its powers and functions upon such terms and conditions as
it may determine.

25.–(1) The funds and resources of the Basin Water Board
shall be-
(a) fees and charges as may be collected from the issuance
and operation of permits under this Act;
(b) any other payment due to the Basin Water Board in
respect of any other matter incidental to its functions;
(c) such sums as may be approved for the Basin Water
Board by the Parliament; and
(d) such donations, grants, bequests and loans as the
Basin Water Board may, receive from any person or
organisation. (2) The funds and resources of the Basin Water Board shall
be applied in the exercise of the duties and powers of the Basin
Water Board. 26.–(1) Not less than two months before the beginning of
every financial year, the Basin Water Board shall, at a meeting,
pass a detailed annual budget of the -
(a) rates of fees and charges to be levied by the Basin Water
Board and Catchments and Sub-catchments Water
Committees for the issuance and operation of permits
under this Act; and
(b) revenues expected to be received. Funds of Basin
Water Board
Annual and
supplementary
budget

issuance and operation of permits
under this Act; and
(b) revenues expected to be received. Funds of Basin
Water Board
Annual and
supplementary
budget

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
484
(2) The Basin Water Board during the forthcoming
financial year and, whenever circumstances so require, the
Basin Water Board may pass a supplementary budget in any
financial year. (3) The Annual Budget shall be endorsed by the Basin
Water Board. (4) Where in any financial year the Basin Water Board
requires to make any disbursement not provided for, or of an
amount in excess of the amount provided for in the annual
budget for any year, the Board shall, at a meeting, pass a
supplementary budget detailing such disbursement.

of the amount provided for in the annual
budget for any year, the Board shall, at a meeting, pass a
supplementary budget detailing such disbursement.

27.–(1) The Basin Water Board shall cause to be provided and
kept in accordance with International Accounting Standards
and on an accruals basis, proper books of accounts and records
with respect to-
(a) the receipt and expenditure of moneys by, and other
financial transactions of the Basin Water Board; and
(b) the assets and liabilities of the Basin Water Board,
and shall cause to be made out for every financial year
a balance sheet showing the details of the income and
expenditure of the Basin Water Board and its assets and
liabilities. (2) Within six months of the close of every financial
year the accounts including the balance sheet of the Basin
Water Board shall be audited by the Controller and Auditor-
General in accordance with the provisions of the Public
Audit Act. (3) An audited balance sheet shall be placed before a
meeting of the Basin Water Board and, if adopted by the Basin
Water Board, be endorsed with a certificate that it has been so
adopted.

placed before a
meeting of the Basin Water Board and, if adopted by the Basin
Water Board, be endorsed with a certificate that it has been so
adopted.

(4) As soon as the accounts of the Basin Water Board have
been audited, and in any case not later than six months after
the closure of the financial year, the Board shall submit to the
Minister a copy of the audited statement of accounts. Accounts and
audit
Cap. 418

ter
the closure of the financial year, the Board shall submit to the
Minister a copy of the audited statement of accounts. Accounts and
audit
Cap. 418

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.485
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
28.–(1) The Basin Water Board shall cause to be prepared
within six months after the close of each financial year an
annual report detailing generally activities and operations of
the Basin Water Board during that year. (2) The report shall be accompanied by-
(a) a copy of the audited accounts of the Basin Water Board
together with the auditor’s report on the accounts; and
(b) a copy of the annual reports of the Basin Water Board. (3) The Basin Water Board shall cause copies of the annual
report, the audited accounts and the auditors’ report to be
placed on each Water Register provided for under section 79. (4) The Minister shall, as soon as practicable after receiving
the report from the Basin Water Board, lay before the National
Assembly the audited accounts of the Basin Water Board
together with the auditor’s report, and the annual report.

Water Board, lay before the National
Assembly the audited accounts of the Basin Water Board
together with the auditor’s report, and the annual report.

(e) Catchment and Sub-catchment Water Committees
29.–(1) Minister may, by order in the Gazette and upon
consultation with Basin Water Board, designate and declare
such areas as Catchment or Sub-catchments. (2) The general functions of the Catchments or Sub-
catchments Water Committee shall be to-
(a) coordinate and harmonise catchment or sub-catchment
integrated water resources management plan;
(b) resolve water resources conflicts in the catchment or
sub catchment; and
(c) perform other delegated functions by the Basin Water
Board. (3) The Third Schedule shall have effect to the appointment
of members and other matters relating to the catchment and
Sub-catchment Water Committee. 30. There shall be a Catchment Water Officer of the Catchment
or Sub-catchment Water Committee who shall be appointed
by the Basin Water Board. Annual report
Establishment
of Catchment
and Sub-
catchment Water
Committees
Appointment of
Catchment Water
Officer

ppointed
by the Basin Water Board. Annual report
Establishment
of Catchment
and Sub-
catchment Water
Committees
Appointment of
Catchment Water
Officer

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
486
PART V
INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCE
MANAGEMENT PLANS
31.–(1) The Minister shall cause a National Integrated
Water Resources Management Plan to be prepared based on
integrated water resources management plans prepared by the
Basin Water Boards and Catchment Water Committees.

Management Plan to be prepared based on
integrated water resources management plans prepared by the
Basin Water Boards and Catchment Water Committees.

(2) The Plan shall include, inter alia, the following:
(a) a water balance for each basin of Mainland Tanzania
that compares expected water demand with data and
information regarding water availability;
(b) proposed options for meeting forecasted demand for
each basin in which forecasted water demand exceeds
available supply, which options may include-
(i) water demand management programmes;
(ii) necessary infrastructure construction;
(iii) desirable institutional initiatives; and
(iv) inter-basin transfers of water;
(c) classifying water resources in accordance with section
32;
(d) requirements of the reserve for each water resource in
accordance with section 33;
(e) identifying areas which, in accordance with this Act,
shall be designated Protected Zones and Groundwater
Controlled Areas;
(f) any other measure, including appropriate legal reforms,
which is deemed necessary to achieve the objectives of
the Plan; and
(g) measures for implementation of the Plan.

including appropriate legal reforms,
which is deemed necessary to achieve the objectives of
the Plan; and
(g) measures for implementation of the Plan.

(3) The Plan shall be prepared by the Basin Water Boards,
Catchment and Sub-catchments Water Committees, in such
manner as the Minister shall determine in regulations adopted
under this Act, and shall be subject to consultation with all
stakeholders before approval is made. Preparation of
Water Resources
Management Plan

ted
under this Act, and shall be subject to consultation with all
stakeholders before approval is made. Preparation of
Water Resources
Management Plan

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.487
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(4) At least once in each successive five year period
following approval of the Water Resources Management Plan,
the Minister shall cause it to be reviewed and amended as
appropriate, but not earlier than three years after the approval
of the Plan. PART VI
PROTECTION OF WATER RESOURCES
(a) Water Resources Classification and Reserve
32.–(1) The Minister may, by regulations, prescribe, a system
for classifying water resources for the purposes of determining
water quality objectives for each class of water resources.

tions, prescribe, a system
for classifying water resources for the purposes of determining
water quality objectives for each class of water resources.

(2) Under the prescribed classification system, water
resources may be classified according to type, location,
geographical area, use and other factors and the system may-
(a) establish guidelines and procedures for determining
different classes of water resources;
(b) in respect of each class of water resource-
(i) establish procedures for determining the reserve;
(ii) establish procedures which are designed to satisfy
the quality requirements of water users as far as is
reasonably possible, without significantly altering
the natural water quality characteristics of the
water resource;
(iii) establish procedures which are designed to take
into account seasonal variations of flow and the
potential impact of flow variations on water use
permits and discharge permits to be issued in
accordance with sections 49 and 67;
(iv) set out water uses for in-stream or land based
activities which shall be regulated or prohibited in
order to protect the water resource; and
(v) provide for such other matters relating to the
protection, use, development, conservation,
management and control of water resources as the
Classification of
water resources
and resource
quality objectives

on, use, development, conservation,
management and control of water resources as the
Classification of
water resources
and resource
quality objectives

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
488
Minister, in consultation with the National Water
Board, may consider necessary. (3) The Minister may, by notice in the Gazette-
(a) classify each water resource in accordance with the
prescribed classification system;
(b) specify the resource quality objectives for a water
resource of the class to which it belongs; and
(c) specify the requirements for achieving the objectives
and the dates from which the objectives shall apply. 33.–(1) The Minister shall, by notice in the Gazette, determine
the reserve for the whole or part of each water resource which
has been classified under this part. (2) A determination of the reserve shall ensure that adequate
allowance is made for each aspect of the reserve. (3) The Minister, Basin Water Boards and all public bodies
shall, when exercising any statutory power or performing
any statutory duty, take into account and give effect to the
requirements of the reserve. 34.

shall, when exercising any statutory power or performing
any statutory duty, take into account and give effect to the
requirements of the reserve. 34.

Without prejudice to section 57 of the Environmental
Management Act, the Minister may, by an order published in
the Gazette, prohibit human activities to be conducted beyond
sixty metres from a water dam or reservoir or a water source. (b) Restrictions During Drought and Natural Disasters
35.–(1) Where, at any time, in any specified area, the volume
of water to which permits of use exist is insufficient to satisfy
all such permits, the Minister may direct the appropriate Basin
Water Board to review the abstraction, use, diversion, control
and appropriation of water in that area and in so doing the
Basin Water Board may revise the quantity allowed by any
permit and the terms and conditions of any permit to the use
of water in that area. (2) The Basin Water Board shall have regard to the
principle that where beneficial use of the whole right has been
Determination of
reserve
Prohibition of
human activities
near water source
Cap. 191
Position when
volume is
inadequate to
satisfy all permits
granted in respect
thereof

eserve
Prohibition of
human activities
near water source
Cap. 191
Position when
volume is
inadequate to
satisfy all permits
granted in respect
thereof

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.489
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
maintained, no permit shall be cancelled or reduced except in
proportion with all other permits in the same area. 36. Where, in the opinion of the Basin Water Board, account
being had of drought and natural disasters the supply of water
from any source is insufficient or likely to become insufficient
for the needs of the persons using it, the Basin Water Board
may, at any time, suspend or vary all or any water use permits
from that source issued in accordance with this Act, for such
period as may be deemed necessary, and thereupon such water
use permits shall cease to have effect for the period of the
suspension or shall be exercisable only as varied.

ed necessary, and thereupon such water
use permits shall cease to have effect for the period of the
suspension or shall be exercisable only as varied.

(c) Protected Zones
37.–(1) The Minister after consultation with other institutions
responsible for land management, may, by notice published in
the Gazette, for the protection of water sources from pollution,
erosion or any other adverse effects establish a protected zone
on land draining to, or above-
(a) any water, borehole, treatment or other works forming
part of a zone water supply or from which water supply
is drawn;
(b) any sewer, sewage works or outfall; or
(c) any catchment, swamp, reservoir, aquifer, wetland
spring, or any other source of water. (2) The Basin Water Board may construct and maintain
such works and may take any such measures in a protected
zone as are considered necessary. (3) The notice may-
(a) prohibit or limit any activities within the protected
zone as the Basin Water Board sees fit; or
(b) require any occupier of land within the protected zone
to construct and maintain works, or take any measure
prescribed by the Basin Water Board in accordance
with the notice. Suspension or
variation of water
use permits
on account of
drought and
natural disasters
Establishment
of protected zones
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 8

tice. Suspension or
variation of water
use permits
on account of
drought and
natural disasters
Establishment
of protected zones
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 8

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
490
(4) A person who contravenes the provisions of notice
issued under subsection (3) commits an offence and on
conviction, shall be liable to a fine of not less than three
hundred thousand shillings but not exceeding five million
shillings or to imprisonment for a term of not less than six
months or to both. (5) Compensation shall be payable to the owner or occupier
of land in which a protected zone has been established. (6) Where the protected zone is established for purposes
of water supply, the Basin Water Board may order the water
authority to pay any compensation payable. (7) Compensation shall not be payable to owner or occupier
who was not in ownership or occupation of that land at the
time when the protected Zone was established. (d) Groundwater Controlled Areas
38.–(1) On the recommendation of the Basin Water Board, the
Minister may, by order published in the Gazette, declare any
area of Mainland Tanzania to be a Groundwater Controlled
Area.

the Basin Water Board, the
Minister may, by order published in the Gazette, declare any
area of Mainland Tanzania to be a Groundwater Controlled
Area.

(2) In exercising powers under subsection (1), the Minister
shall have regard to-
(a) the availability of groundwater in the area;
(b) existing uses of groundwater and foreseeable water
demands;
(c) possible adverse impacts by the exploitation of
groundwater on the availability of surface water; and
(d) existing and potential conflicts among water users in
the area. (3) Upon publication of the order in the Gazette, no person
shall construct, sink, enlarge or deepen a well or borehole
except in accordance with a groundwater permit granted
under this Act. (4) Compensation shall be payable to the owner or occupier
of land in which a Groundwater Controlled Area has been
established. Declaration of
ground water
controlled areas

be payable to the owner or occupier
of land in which a Groundwater Controlled Area has been
established. Declaration of
ground water
controlled areas

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.491
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(5) Where the Groundwater Controlled Area is established
for the purposes of water supply or commercial, industrial or
agriculture development, the Basin Water Board may order
the Water Supply and Sanitation Authority or commercial,
industrial, agricultural developer or any other beneficiary to
pay any compensation payable. (e) Prevention of Pollution
39.–(1) An owner or occupier of land on which any activity
or process is or was performed or undertaken, or any other
situation exists which causes, have caused or likely to cause
pollution of a water source, shall take all reasonable measures
to prevent any such pollution from occurring, continuing or
recurring. (2) A Basin Water Board may direct any person who fails to
take the measures required under subsection (1) to-
(a) commence taking measures before a given date;
(b) diligently continue with those measures; or
(c) complete the measures before a given date.

) to-
(a) commence taking measures before a given date;
(b) diligently continue with those measures; or
(c) complete the measures before a given date.

40.–(1) Where a person fails to comply or complies inadequately
with a directive given under section 39(2), the Basin Water
Board may take measures as it considers necessary to remedy
the situation. (2) A Basin Water Board may recover all reasonable and
justifiable costs incurred as a result of the Board taking action
under subsection (1) jointly and severally from the following
persons-
(a) a person who is or was responsible for, or who directly
or indirectly contributed to, the pollution or the
potential pollution;
(b) the owner or occupier of the land at the time when
pollution or potential for pollution occurred; and
(c) a person who negligently failed to prevent the activity
or process being performed or undertaken or the
pollution or potential for pollution occurring. Prevention of
pollution
Basin Water
Board may take
measures to
remedy effects of
pollution

aken or the
pollution or potential for pollution occurring. Prevention of
pollution
Basin Water
Board may take
measures to
remedy effects of
pollution

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
492
(3) Where more than one person is liable in terms of
subsection (2), the Basin Water Board shall, at the request of
any of those person, after giving them the opportunity to be
heard, apportion the liability, but such apportionment shall
not relieve any of them of their joint and several liabilities, for
the full amount of the costs. 41.–(1) In this section-
(a) “incident” includes any incident or accident in which
a substance pollutes or has the potential to pollute or
have a detrimental effect on a water resources; and
(b) “responsible person” includes any person who is
responsible for the incident or owns the substance or
was in control of the substance involved in the incident
at the time of the incident. (2) The responsible person, any other person involved in the
incident or a person with knowledge of the incident shall, as
soon as is practicable after obtaining knowledge of the incident,
report the incident to the Basin Water Board or any public officer.

cident shall, as
soon as is practicable after obtaining knowledge of the incident,
report the incident to the Basin Water Board or any public officer.

(3) A responsible person shall-
(a) take all reasonable measures to contain and minimise
the effects of the incident;
(b) undertake clean-up procedures; and
(c) take such measures as the Basin Water Board may
verbally or in writing direct, and any verbal directions
shall be confirmed in writing within fourteen days to
have effect under this subsection. (4) Where a responsible person fails to carry out or carry
out inadequately the measures set out in subsection (3), the
Basin Water Board may take measures as it considers necessary
to remedy the situation and the provisions of section 40(2)
and (3) shall apply mutatis mutandis to the recovery of costs
incurred by the Basin Water Board. 42. Where an emergency pollution incident arises, a Basin
Water Board shall, immediately upon being informed of the
Control of
emergency
pollution
incidents
Duty and
emergency
powers of Basin
Water Boards

sin
Water Board shall, immediately upon being informed of the
Control of
emergency
pollution
incidents
Duty and
emergency
powers of Basin
Water Boards

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.493
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
incident reported in accordance with the provisions of section
41 (2), take all reasonable measures to advise and continue
advising water users likely to be affected by the pollution
incident of-
(a) the nature of the incident;
(b) the risk to water users in continuing to use water from
the water resource; and
(c) the period during which the risk shall continue,
until the effects of such incident have been mitigated and the
risk to water users has ended. PART VII
WATER ABSTRACTION AND USE
(a) Water Use Permits
43.–(1) Without prejudice to sections 11, 12 and 53, a person
who diverts, dams, impounds, stores, abstracts or uses water
from surface or underground water source, or for any such
purpose constructs or maintains any works, shall apply for a
water use permit in accordance with this Act. (2) A water use permit shall be issued taking into account
water needed for non-abstraction uses or for maintaining
environmental flow requirements.

. (2) A water use permit shall be issued taking into account
water needed for non-abstraction uses or for maintaining
environmental flow requirements.

(3) No permit or licence issued under any other law may
apply to watercourse without a written authorisation of the
Basin Water Board. (4) The application for a water use permit shall be made in
accordance with section 76 and shall be subject to the financial
provisions set out in section 97. 44. A person who uses water in excess of amount authorised
in the water use permit or uses water contrary to purpose
authorised by water use permit commits an offence and on
conviction-
(a) in case the offender is a natural person, shall be liable
to a fine of not less than three hundred thousand
Uses that are
subject to water
use permit
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 9
Use of water
contrary to
permit
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 10

s than three hundred thousand
Uses that are
subject to water
use permit
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 9
Use of water
contrary to
permit
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 10

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
494
shillings but not exceeding five million shillings or to
imprisonment for a term of not less than three months
but not exceeding six months; or
(b) in case the offender is a legal person, shall be liable to
a fine of not less than five million shillings provided
that, in the case of a subsequent offence, the offender
shall pay a fine of not less than one hundred thousand
shillings for each day in which the offence continues
and the Basin Water Board may revoke the water use
permit issued to the offender. 45.

d thousand
shillings for each day in which the offence continues
and the Basin Water Board may revoke the water use
permit issued to the offender. 45.

A person who diverts, dams, impounds, stores, abstracts or
uses water without water use permit commits an offence and
on conviction, shall be liable-
(a) in case the offender is a natural person, to a fine of not
less than three hundred thousand shillings but not
exceeding five million shillings or to imprisonment for
a term of not less than three months but not exceeding
six months; or
(b) in case the offender is a legal person, to a fine of not less
than five million shillings:
Provided that, in the case of subsequent offence, the offender
shall pay a fine of not less than one hundred thousand shillings
for each day in which the offence continues. [s. 44A]
46.–(1) A Basin Water Board may grant to any person a
permit to divert, dam, store, abstract and use water from such
source, in such quantity, and for such purpose and under such
conditions and for such period as may be specified in the water
use permit. (2) The Basin Water Board may grant the applicant a
temporary water use permit for any purpose under such
conditions as may be deemed fit.

use permit. (2) The Basin Water Board may grant the applicant a
temporary water use permit for any purpose under such
conditions as may be deemed fit.

(3) A permit holder may use any saved water through
improvement of water use efficiency or diversification for any
Use of water
without permit
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 11
Grant of water
use permit

r through
improvement of water use efficiency or diversification for any
Use of water
without permit
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 11
Grant of water
use permit

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.495
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
purposes other than those in the permit with the consent of
the Basin Water Board. (4) A water use permit holder may, with the consent of the
Basin Water Board, trade his right to use water to any one and
for any duration provided that the duration of the permit is
not exceeded. (5) The Minister may make regulations prescribing the
trading of water use permit. [s. 45]
47. A water use permit granted under this Part shall not be
deemed to imply any guarantee that the quality and quantity
of water referred to is, or shall be available. [s. 46]
48.–(1) A Basin Water Board may, either at the time of the
grant or at any time after the grant of any water use permit,
declare that such permit shall be appurtenant to land described
in the water use permit and may at any time declare an existing
permit to be appurtenant to land affected thereby.

ll be appurtenant to land described
in the water use permit and may at any time declare an existing
permit to be appurtenant to land affected thereby.

(2) Where a water use permit has been declared to be
appurtenant to any land, the benefit of the permit shall be
enjoyed and may be enforced by the person who is for the time
being entitled to the possession of the land. (3) Where in consequence of any transfer, lease or partition,
a person becomes entitled to the possession of part of the land
to which a water use permit has been declared appurtenant,
he may abstract and use such proportion of the water, the
abstraction and use of which is permitted by the water use
permit as may be agreed between him and the persons entitled
to the possession of the remainder of the land or, in the absence
of any such agreement, as may be determined by the Basin
Water Board. (4) Where any apportionment of water has been made under
the provisions of subsection (3) in respect of any partition of
land, the several amounts of water so apportioned shall be
Issuance of water
use permits not to
imply guaranteed
quality and
quantity
Permit may
be made
appurtenant to
land

nts of water so apportioned shall be
Issuance of water
use permits not to
imply guaranteed
quality and
quantity
Permit may
be made
appurtenant to
land

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
496
deemed to be appurtenant to the several parcels of such land
and the benefit thereof shall be enjoyed and all rights thereof
may be enforced in accordance with such apportionment by the
persons who are for the time being entitled to the possession
of such parcels, and such rights shall prevail until the parcels
shall again become merged with each other. (5) A person acquiring a water use permit by agreement in
accordance with the provisions of subsection (3), shall, within
thirty days, give notice thereof in the prescribed form to the
Basin Water Board. [s. 47]
49.

nce with the provisions of subsection (3), shall, within
thirty days, give notice thereof in the prescribed form to the
Basin Water Board. [s. 47]
49.

A holder of a water use permit granted under this Part
shall-
(a) not cause or allow any water to be polluted;
(b) prevent any damage to the source from which water is
taken, or to which water is discharged after use;
(c) ensure the proper drainage of the land where the water
is used to the satisfaction of the Basin Water Board;
(d) submit any data relevant to the grant of any water user
permit under this Act within such time as the Basin
Water Board may prescribe;
(e) observe conditions and regulations made under
this Act;
(f) observe any special conditions that may be attached to
the water use permit;
(g) ensure efficient use of water; and
(h) comply with section 60 of the Environment
Management Act. [s. 48]
50.–(1) Where in the opinion of the Basin Water Board, in
any specified area, the volume of water to which water use
permits exist is insufficient to satisfy all such permits, the
Basin Water Board may review the use, diversion, control
and allocation of water in that area and in so doing may
Conditions
implied in all
water use permits
Cap. 191
Position
when Volume
inadequate to
satisfy all permits
granted in respect
thereof

in so doing may
Conditions
implied in all
water use permits
Cap. 191
Position
when Volume
inadequate to
satisfy all permits
granted in respect
thereof

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.497
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
revise the quantity allowed by any water use permit and the
terms and conditions of any water use permit to the use of
water in that area. (2) In revising water use permits under subsection (1), the
Basin Water Board shall have regard to-
(a) the principle that where beneficial use of the whole
permit has been maintained, no permit shall be
cancelled or reduced except in proportion with all other
permits granted for the same purpose, in the same area;
(b) the minimum water requirements for the health and
sanitation of the population; and
(c) the minimum water requirements in terms of quality
and quantity to sustain the aquatic ecosystem on the
basis of available information. [s. 49]
51.–(1) The Basin Water Board may, at any time in respect of
any water use permit to the use of an unspecified quantity of
water, specify the quantity of water for which that water use
permit applies and regard shall be given to the beneficial use
of such water.

uantity of
water, specify the quantity of water for which that water use
permit applies and regard shall be given to the beneficial use
of such water.

(2) The Basin Water Board may at any time, in respect of
any water use permit granted prior to the entry into force of
this Act, for the use of water for an indefinite period of time,
specify the duration of such water use permit. (3) Any water use permits modified pursuant to subsections
(1) and (2) shall be recorded in the Water Register. [s. 50]
(b) Recording of Unregistered Rights
52.–(1) A person who, for an uninterrupted period of more
than five years, has abstracted and used water beneficially from
such source for any purpose other than domestic purposes,
without a permit or right for such use registered in the water
register, shall be entitled to a water use permit for such
purpose upon application to the Basin Water Board provided
Situations
where quantity
or duration is
unspecified
Recording of
unregistered
rights

such
purpose upon application to the Basin Water Board provided
Situations
where quantity
or duration is
unspecified
Recording of
unregistered
rights

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
498
that such application shall be made within two years after the
commencement of this Act. (2) The Basin Water Board may, in accordance with
this Act-
(a) set any condition as may be deemed fit on the water use
permit to be issued under this section;
(b) specify the amount of water which may be abstracted
and used if the claim entails an unspecified amount of
water; and
(c) specify the duration of the water use permit. (3) Failure to apply for a water use permit within two years
after commencement of this Act shall result into the expiry of
the entitlement to the permit under this section
(4) An application fee shall not be payable for a water use
permit application made under this section. (5) An application under subsection (1) shall be subject to
the procedures specified in section 76. [s.

se
permit application made under this section. (5) An application under subsection (1) shall be subject to
the procedures specified in section 76. [s.

51]
53.–(1) Customary rights held by any person or community
in a watercourse shall be recognised and is in every respect of
equal status and effect to a granted right and shall, subject to
the provisions of this Act, be-
(a) capable of being recorded by a Basin Water Board in
favour of an individual, a family, a group of two or more
individuals whether or not are associated together
under any law;
(b) capable of being of indefinite duration, provided that
the Basin Water Board may set a duration and the
amount of water to be abstracted, upon the recording
of such rights;
(c) governed by customary law in respect of any dealings,
between persons using the water source within the
Basin Water Board having jurisdiction over the water
resource or facility; and
(d) may be subject to a premium or an annual payment,
which may be varied from time to time. Incidents of
customary water

er
resource or facility; and
(d) may be subject to a premium or an annual payment,
which may be varied from time to time. Incidents of
customary water

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.499
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(2) The procedure for the acquisition or variation of water
use permits under this Act shall apply mutatis mutandis to the
acquisition or variation of recorded customary water rights. [s. 52]
54.–(1) A person, a family unit, a group of persons recognised
as such under customary law or who have formed themselves
together as an association, cooperative society or as any other
body recognised by any law which permits that body to be
formed, may apply to the Basin Water Board for grant of a
water use permit. (2) An application for a grant of a water use permit shall be
as prescribed under section 76. [s. 53]
(c) Groundwater Permit
55.–(1) Notwithstanding section 11(3), a person who intends
to construct, sink, enlarge, or deepen a well or borehole in
a Groundwater Controlled Area declared under section 38
or any other area, shall apply for a groundwater permit in
accordance with this Act. (2) The application for a groundwater permit shall be made
in accordance with section 76.

apply for a groundwater permit in
accordance with this Act. (2) The application for a groundwater permit shall be made
in accordance with section 76.

(3) An application for a groundwater permit shall be
construed as an application for the use of the water abstracted
from such well or borehole in accordance with this Part, subject
to inspection of the well or borehole by the Basin Water Board. [s. 54]
56.–(1) A person who, contrary to the provisions of this Act,
constructs, sinks or enlarges a well or borehole without a
groundwater permit duly granted by the Basin Water Board
commits an offence. (2) A person guilty of an offence under subsection (1) shall,
on conviction be liable to a fine of not less than five hundred
thousand shillings or imprisonment for a term not exceeding
Application for
water use permits
by customary
water users
Duty to apply
for ground
water permit
to construct or
enlarge wells
Offence in respect
of failure to
obtain ground
water permit

customary
water users
Duty to apply
for ground
water permit
to construct or
enlarge wells
Offence in respect
of failure to
obtain ground
water permit

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
500
six months, or to both, and in every case where the offence
is a continuing one to an additional fine of not less than fifty
thousand shillings in respect of every case. [s. 55]
57.–(1) A person shall not be granted a groundwater permit
for any well or borehole within distances prescribed under
subsection (2). (2) The Minister may, for any area of Mainland Tanzania,
prescribe in regulations the minimum distances for the
sinking, enlargement or deepening of wells or boreholes in a
particular aquifer. [s. 56]
58. A person lawfully engaged in drilling or exploring activities
shall keep and submit any relevant data on groundwater to the
Basin Water Board. [s. 57]
59.

rson lawfully engaged in drilling or exploring activities
shall keep and submit any relevant data on groundwater to the
Basin Water Board. [s. 57]
59.

The holder of a special mining licence or a prospecting
licences granted under the Mining Act, or a petroleum
prospecting licence who encounters groundwater in any
workings carried out under such licence shall-
(a) promptly notify the Basin Water Board of any such
waters;
(b) submit any relevant data to the Basin Water Board;
(c) take all such measures necessary for the protection of
groundwater against pollution; and
(d) comply with any directions of the Basin Water Board
regarding the protection or disposal of such water. [s. 58]
60. An operator of a well or borehole that has ceased to be in
use shall-
(a) adequately seal the well or borehole to prevent pollution
and to prevent injury to any other person; and
Distance limits
for sinking of
wells or boreholes
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 12
Submission of
data to Basin
Water Board
Ground water
encountered
in mining
operations
Cap. 123
Obligation to seal
well no longer
in use

of 2022 s. 12
Submission of
data to Basin
Water Board
Ground water
encountered
in mining
operations
Cap. 123
Obligation to seal
well no longer
in use

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.501
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(b) promptly notify the Basin Water Board which upon
receipt of such notification shall forthwith cancel the
groundwater permit. [s. 59]
61.–(1) Subject to subsection (2), no person shall cause or allow
any groundwater to run to waste from any borehole except for
the purpose of testing the quantity or quality of the supply or
cleaning, sterilising, examining or repairing the borehole. (2) Where groundwater interferes or threatens to interfere
with the execution or operation of any underground works,
it shall be lawful under this subsection to cause or allow the
water to run to waste so far as it is necessary for the works to
be executed or operated, where no other method of disposing
of the water is reasonably practicable. [s.

ste so far as it is necessary for the works to
be executed or operated, where no other method of disposing
of the water is reasonably practicable. [s.

60]
62.–(1) The Basin Water Board shall have power to-
(a) determine the safe yield of any aquifer for the purpose
of guiding determinations concerning the abstraction
and use of water from the aquifer;
(b) require that an aquifer be used on a sustainable basis
including restricting abstractions so that they do not
individually or collectively exceed the safe yield of the
aquifer;
(c) impose special requirements and restrictions with
respect to artesian wells, for the purpose of preventing
waste or contamination of water, or loss of artesian
pressure; and
(d) carry out programmes for the recharge of aquifers. (2) For purposes of this section, “safe yield” means the
amount of water which may be abstracted from an aquifer at a
rate that shall not reduce the supply to such an extent as may
render such abstraction harmful to the aquifer, to the quality
of the water or to the environment. [s. 61]
Waste of ground
water
Powers of Basin
Water Board
in relation to
aquifers

l to the aquifer, to the quality
of the water or to the environment. [s. 61]
Waste of ground
water
Powers of Basin
Water Board
in relation to
aquifers

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
502
63. The Minister shall, in consultation with relevant authorities,
make regulations that require a person who undertakes
works relating to groundwater prospecting, construction or
enlargement of a well or borehole to be licensed and carried
out in such manner and under such conditions as may be
prescribed. [s. 62]
(d) Discharge Permits
64.–(1) A person who wishes to discharge effluents from any
commercial, industrial or agricultural source or from any
sewerage works or trade waste systems or from any other
source into surface water or underground strata shall apply to
the Basin Water Board for a discharge permit in accordance
with this Act. (2) The application for a discharge permit shall be made in
accordance with section 76. [s.

Board for a discharge permit in accordance
with this Act. (2) The application for a discharge permit shall be made in
accordance with section 76. [s.

63]
65.–(1) A person commits an offence who, unless authorised
under the conditions of a discharge permit issued in accordance
with this Part, causes or allows-
(a) waste or effluent to come into contact with any water;
(b) waste or effluent to be discharged directly or indirectly
into water; or
(c) water to be polluted by waste or effluent. (2) The provisions of subsection (l), shall apply to any
discharge permit containing conditions on the treatment or
discharge of effluent. (3) In any proceedings for an offence under subsection (1),
proof of the existence of a pipe, drain, pond, pump or other
means whereby waste may be conveyed, retained or deposited
as to come into contact, directly or indirectly, with water, shall
be prima facie evidence of pollution of that water. (4) A person contravening the provisions of subsection (1)
commits an offence and on conviction shall be liable -
Power to regulate
profession of
groundwater
drilling
Discharge permit
Offences in
respect to water
pollution

fence and on conviction shall be liable -
Power to regulate
profession of
groundwater
drilling
Discharge permit
Offences in
respect to water
pollution

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.503
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(a) to pay the cost of remedying the damage caused and
reinstating the quality of the water, as far as is possible,
to the condition that would have existed where the
damage was not caused; and
(b) to a fine of not less than three hundred thousand shillings
or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year
or to both and in case of subsequent conviction, to a
fine not less than five hundred thousand shillings or to
imprisonment not exceeding two years or to both and
in case of continuation of the offence, to an additional
fine not less than fifty thousand shillings in respect of
every day during which the offence has continued. (5) Where a person fails to comply with the provisions of
subsection (4)(a) the Basin Water Board may apply to court
for an enforcement of the compliance with the provisions,
and may enter any land and take such measures as may be
necessary to ensure compliance with the provisions.

ent of the compliance with the provisions,
and may enter any land and take such measures as may be
necessary to ensure compliance with the provisions.

(6) In any proceedings under subsection (4)(a), the court
may, on application by the Basin Water Board, require that
person to pay into court a sum not being less than eighty
percent of the cost estimated by the Basin Water Board of
remedying the damage caused and reinstating the quality of
the water. [s. 64]
66.–(1) Without prejudice to subsection (2), the Minister
may, by order published in the Gazette, establish water quality
laboratory responsible for water quality management for
analytical and reference under this Act. (2) The established water quality laboratories shall
undertake assessment of water quality and analysis of waste
water in accordance with water quality standards prescribed
under the Environmental Management Act. (3) The water quality and effluent standards to be applied
to the discharge permits shall be made and published
by the Minister responsible for environment as national
Water quality and
effluent standards
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 13
Cap. 191
Cap. 191

e and published
by the Minister responsible for environment as national
Water quality and
effluent standards
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 13
Cap. 191
Cap. 191

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
504
environmental quality standards under the Environmental
Management Act. (4) The holder of a discharge permit shall comply with
the water quality and effluent standards formulated under
subsection (3). (5) In granting or renewing a discharge permit, the Basin
Water Board shall have regard to any classification of any water
resource made in accordance with section 32. [s. 65]
67. A Basin Water Board may attach any conditions to a
discharge permit as it may deem fit and such conditions may
determine-
(a) the nature, composition and volume of the effluent or
other matter to be discharged;
(b) the receiving water or underground strata into which
effluents may be discharged;
(c) measures to be taken for protecting water contained
in other underground strata through which any well,
borehole or pipe containing the effluent or other matter
shall pass;
(d) provision of facilities for inspection; and
(e) provision of any other data related to the grant of the
permit as the Basin Water Board may specify.

) provision of facilities for inspection; and
(e) provision of any other data related to the grant of the
permit as the Basin Water Board may specify.

[s. 66]
68.–(1) Where an application for a discharge permit relates to
an outfall from which pollutants are already being discharged,
the Basin Water Board may grant a provisional permit to
discharge, authorising the continuation of a discharge subject
to such terms and conditions as may be prescribed in the
provisional permit. (2) The provisional permit granted under subsection (1)
shall expire upon a final decision with regard to the grant of a
permit to discharge by the Basin Water Board. [s. 67]
Conditions to
be attached to
discharge permit
Provisional
discharge permit

ard to the grant of a
permit to discharge by the Basin Water Board. [s. 67]
Conditions to
be attached to
discharge permit
Provisional
discharge permit

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.505
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
69. A person to whom a discharge permit has been granted
under section 67, may not discharge into underground strata
or groundwater recharge area. [s. 68]
(e) General Provisions Relating to Water Use,
Groundwater and Discharge Permits
70.–(1) A person who is the holder of a water right or permit
to discharge effluent or a permit to construct, sink, enlarge or
deepen a well or borehole issued under the Water Utilisation
(Control and Regulation) Act, shall be entitled to a water use
permit, discharge permit or groundwater permit under this
Act for such purpose upon application to the Basin Water
Board provided that such application shall be made within two
years after the commencement of this Act.

ch purpose upon application to the Basin Water
Board provided that such application shall be made within two
years after the commencement of this Act.

(2) The Basin Water Board may, in accordance with this
Act-
(a) set any condition as may be deemed fit on the permit to
be issued under this section;
(b) specify the amount of water which may be abstracted
and used or the volume of effluent discharged if the
claim entails an unspecified amount of water; and
(c) specify the duration of the water use permit. (3) Failure to apply for a water use permit, discharge
permit or groundwater permit within two years after
commencement of this Act shall result in the expiry of such
rights as were granted under the Water Utilisation (Control
and Regulation) Act. (4) A nominal application fee shall be payable for a permit
application made under this section. (5) An application under subsection (l) shall be subject to
the procedures specified in section 76. [s. 69]
Prohibition on
discharge to
ground water
Entitlement to
existing right or
permit
Act No. 42 of 1974
Act No. 42 of 1974

pecified in section 76. [s. 69]
Prohibition on
discharge to
ground water
Entitlement to
existing right or
permit
Act No. 42 of 1974
Act No. 42 of 1974

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
506
71. In granting a water use permit or a discharge permit, the
Basin Water Board shall define a reasonable duration for such
permit, while considering-
(a) the purpose for which the water is to be used or effluent
is discharged; and
(b) the amount of monetary investment related to the use
of water or effluent discharge and a reasonable period
of time normally required to recover such investment. [s. 70]
72.–(1) A Basin Water Board may, at any time on the application
or with the consent of the holder of a water use permit or a
discharge permit, determine or diminish such water use permit,
or vary any of its conditions in the event that-
(a) the source does not satisfy the demands;
(b) the grantee has not used the permit in three consecutive
years; or
(c) the discharge of effluents may be injurious to the public. (2) The consent under subsection (1) shall not be
unreasonably withheld. [s.

years; or
(c) the discharge of effluents may be injurious to the public. (2) The consent under subsection (1) shall not be
unreasonably withheld. [s.

71]
73.–(1) In the general interest of the public, the Minister may
declare water to be required for a public purpose for any river
basin or sub-basin. (2) Water shall be deemed to be required for a public
purpose where it is required for any of the following uses-
(a) the supply of water to any city, municipality, township,
minor settlement or rural area;
(b) fire fighting;
(c) the protection of ecosystems within protected areas of
Mainland Tanzania; or
(d) providing for disasters. (3) Where a Basin Water Board is satisfied that it is required
for a public purpose to determine or diminish a water use
permit or a discharge permit, the Board may, by notice in
Duration of water
use permit or
discharge permit
Variation of
permit with
consent
Declaration for
public purpose

e permit, the Board may, by notice in
Duration of water
use permit or
discharge permit
Variation of
permit with
consent
Declaration for
public purpose

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.507
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
writing addressed to the holder of such permit, determine or
diminish that permit to the extent that such determination or
diminution is required for the aforesaid public purpose, and
thereupon the permit shall cease or shall be exercisable only
as so varied. (4) The holder of any permit determined or diminished
under the provisions of this section shall be entitled to
compensation pursuant to section 110. [s.

The holder of any permit determined or diminished
under the provisions of this section shall be entitled to
compensation pursuant to section 110. [s.

72]
74.–(1) The Minister may make regulations that allow persons
who hold a water use permit or a discharge permit or a
groundwater permit to transfer such permit to another person,
provided that-
(a) such transfer shall be subject to approval of the Basin
Water Board;
(b) all terms and conditions under which a transfer of a
permit has been agreed shall be submitted to the Basin
Water Board with the application for approval;
(c) in case a transfer is approved by the Basin Water Board,
the conditions subject to which the permit was granted
may be modified; and
(d) water shall be used for the same purpose as prescribed
in the permit after the transfer of a permit to the use of
such water. (2) A transfer shall not be approved if it is in contravention
of a Water Resources Management Plan made under section 31. (3) The Minister may, by order published in the Gazette,
decide to apply the regulations made under subsection (1) to a
limited area within Mainland Tanzania. (4) The power provided under subsection (1) shall not be
exercised until after the terms and deadlines for the registration
of non-registered rights have expired.

r provided under subsection (1) shall not be
exercised until after the terms and deadlines for the registration
of non-registered rights have expired.

(5) The Basin Water Board may approve the temporary
or permanent transfer of a water use permit that has been
made appurtenant to land, provided that the application for
Transfer of
permits

he temporary
or permanent transfer of a water use permit that has been
made appurtenant to land, provided that the application for
Transfer of
permits

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
508
such approval is made by the holder of the right of occupancy
granted under the Land Act, or the Villages Land Act. (6) The transfer, for a limited period of time, of a water use
permit that has been made appurtenant to land, shall not affect
the appurtenance of the water use permit to that land. (7) A water use permit granted for agricultural purposes
may be transferred temporarily for a period not exceeding
one year. (8) Permits issued pursuant to this Part shall pass on to a
successor-in-title to the named permit holder, provided that
passage of the permit to a successor-in-title, shall not extend
the term of duration of the permit. [s. 73]
75.

the named permit holder, provided that
passage of the permit to a successor-in-title, shall not extend
the term of duration of the permit. [s. 73]
75.

Without prejudice to the provisions of sections 49 and 67,
a Basin Water Board may attach any condition to a water use
permit or a discharge permit as may be deemed fit, and such
conditions may require-
(a) the conduct of an Environmental Impact Assessment;
(b) the membership of a water users association as provided
for in Part VIII;
(c) the payment of compensation to any other person;
(d) the construction of works including technical
specifications thereof;
(e) the variation of volumes of water taken or effluents
discharged depending on the seasonal variation of
flows in the water resources;
(f) the payment of fees for the use of water in the amount
prescribed by the Basin water Board; and
(g) the payment of fees for the discharge of effluents in the
amount prescribed by the Basin Water Board. [s. 74]
76.–(1) Application for a water use permit or a groundwater
permit or a discharge permit shall be made in the form and in
Caps. 113 and 114
Conditions to be
attached on water
use and discharge
permits
Application
procedure
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 14

e made in the form and in
Caps. 113 and 114
Conditions to be
attached on water
use and discharge
permits
Application
procedure
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 14

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.509
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
accordance with the procedure prescribed by the Minister in
the Gazette. (2) An interested person may notify the water officer that
he objects to the grant of a water permit and may specify the
grounds for such objection and shall, if so required, have a
right to be heard by the Basin Water Board. [s. 75]
77.–(1) The Basin Water Board may, by notice in writing
addressed to the holder, declare any permit to be in breach of
the conditions of a permit where the holder of a permit has-
(a) failed to comply with any condition, express or implied,
subject to which the permit was granted;
(b) abstracted or used water in excess of that authorised
or has used water for a purpose not authorised by the
permit;
(c) discharged effluents in excess of the levels authorised
under a discharge permit; and
(d) constructed any well or borehole, or enlarged or
deepened any well or borehole in breach of any
conditions or specifications in a ground water permit.

constructed any well or borehole, or enlarged or
deepened any well or borehole in breach of any
conditions or specifications in a ground water permit.

(2) Where the default is one capable of being remedied,
the Basin Water Board shall first serve on the holder notice
in writing specifying the default and requiring the holder
to remedy the same within such reasonable time as may be
specified in the notice. [s. 76]
78.–(1) Where at any time a Basin Water Board has reason
to believe that the holder of a permit under this Act has not,
during the preceding three years, made full beneficial use of
that permit, the Basin Water Board may by notice in writing
addressed to such holder call upon him to show cause why
such permit shall not be determined, diminished or modified
in such respects as may be specified in the notice. Determination
for breach of
conditions of
permit
Notice to show
cause for misuse
of permit

odified
in such respects as may be specified in the notice. Determination
for breach of
conditions of
permit
Notice to show
cause for misuse
of permit

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
510
(2) Where within three months of the service of such notice
no reply has been received by the Basin Water Board, the
permit may be declared determined, diminished or modified. (3) The holder of a permit upon whom a notice has been
served under subsection (1) may, within three months of such
service, submit to the Basin Water Board a statement in writing
of reasons why the permit shall not be determined, diminished
or modified, or may require to be heard in the matter. (4) The Basin Water Board shall consider any statement
submitted under subsection (3) and shall, if so required, give
the holder an opportunity of being heard in person or by an
advocate and may thereafter by notice in writing addressed to
the holder-
(a) declare the permit determined;
(b) declare the permit varied in such respects as may be
specified in the declaration; or
(c) declare the permit to be subsisting unchanged. [s.

ined;
(b) declare the permit varied in such respects as may be
specified in the declaration; or
(c) declare the permit to be subsisting unchanged. [s.

77]
(f) Water Register
79.–(1) The Basin Water Board shall keep a water register for
the registration of-
(a) every grant or renewal of a water use permit and of the
variation, determination, modification or suspension
of such water use permit;
(b) every grant or renewal of a discharge permit made
by the Board and of the variation, determination or
modification or suspension of such discharge permit;
(c) every grant or renewal of a groundwater permit
made by the Basin Water Board and of the variation,
determination, modification or suspension of such
groundwater permit;
(d) any easement created or determined by the Board; and
(e) any water users association established under Part VIII. (2) A person shall, on application to a Basin Water Board,
be entitled to receive certified extracts from the water register
Keeping of Water
Register by Basin
Water Boards

application to a Basin Water Board,
be entitled to receive certified extracts from the water register
Keeping of Water
Register by Basin
Water Boards

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.511
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
maintained by such Basin Water Board under subsection (1),
upon payment of prescribed fees. (3) Extracts from any water register under subsection (1)
certified to be under the hand of a Basin Water Board shall
be admissible in evidence in all legal proceedings, civil or
criminal, without proof that they are under the hand of the
Basin Water Board purported to have certified the same and
shall also be conclusive prima facie evidence of recorded facts. (4) The entry of any easement in a water register under
subsection (1) shall not affect any requirements as to registration
contained in, or be construed as being an effective registration
for the purposes of, or in lieu of registration under the provisions
of the Registration of Documents Act and Land Registration Act.

tive registration
for the purposes of, or in lieu of registration under the provisions
of the Registration of Documents Act and Land Registration Act.

(5) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1), the
water register shall also contain copies of-
(a) any rules or regulations made under this Act; and
(b) annual reports, audited accounts and auditors’
statements of the Basin Water Board. [s. 78]
80.–(1) The Director shall establish a National Water Register
of water use permits, discharge permits, groundwater
permits, easements granted under this Act, and Water Users
Associations established under this Act. (2) A Basin Water Board shall supply without delay to the
Director a copy of every entry made in the water register and
shall, upon application being made to the Director by any
Basin Water Board or public officer, forthwith provide without
fee a copy of any entry in the National Water Register. (3) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1), the
National Water Register shall also contain copies of-
(a) any rules or regulations made under this Act;
(b) annual reports, audited accounts and auditors’
statements of the Basin Water Boards; and
(c) such other records or information as may be required
by the Minister. [s. 79]
Caps. 117
and 334
Keeping of
National
Water Register
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 15

other records or information as may be required
by the Minister. [s. 79]
Caps. 117
and 334
Keeping of
National
Water Register
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 15

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
512
PART VIII
WATER USERS ASSOCIATIONS
81.–(1) A water users association may be formed by the
agreement of the majority of a group of water users for one or
a combination of the following purposes to-
(a) manage, distribute and conserve water from a source used
jointly by the members of the water users association;
(b) acquire and operate any permit under the provisions of
this Act;
(c) resolve conflicts between members of the association
related to the joint use of a water resource;
(d) collect water user fees on behalf of the Basin Water
Board; and
(e) represent the special interests and values arising
from water used for a public purpose, such as in an
environmental or conservation area, or for the purpose
of managing a Groundwater Controlled Area. (2) The association of water users for the purpose of
subsection (1) shall comprise of any user of water from a
common stream irrespective of the purpose of that use. [s.

of water users for the purpose of
subsection (1) shall comprise of any user of water from a
common stream irrespective of the purpose of that use. [s.

80]
82.–(1) Water users intending to form an association shall
prepare a constitution in the form set out in the Fourth
Schedule and submit such constitution to the Basin Water
Board for approval in accordance with the procedure as the
Minister may prescribe in regulations made under this Act. (2) Upon request of a group of water users intending to
establish an association, the Basin Water Board shall provide
assistance in formulating the Constitution. (3) Members of the water users association shall elect a
Management Committee for each association which shall be
the executive organ of the association and shall be elected and
have the powers as set out in the constitution prepared under
subsection (1). [s. 81]
Establishment
and purposes
of water users
association
Approval and
registration
of water users
association

tion prepared under
subsection (1). [s. 81]
Establishment
and purposes
of water users
association
Approval and
registration
of water users
association

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.513
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
83.–(1) Upon approval of the constitution by the Basin Water
Board, the association shall be registered in the water register
maintained by the Basin Water Board. (2) With effect from the date of registration in the water
register, all water users within the area of an association
as defined in the constitution shall be required to become
members of the association and shall be bound by the
constitution. (3) The Basin Water Board shall cause membership of an
association to be recorded on the water use permit of each
member issued in accordance with Part VII and in the water
register maintained by the Basin Water Board. [s. 82]
84.–(1) In any case where the Basin Water Board is satisfied that
the association does not perform its functions satisfactorily,
it may give directions to the association relating to the
performance of its functions.

the association does not perform its functions satisfactorily,
it may give directions to the association relating to the
performance of its functions.

(2) The directions referred to under subsection (1) may
relate to-
(a) the division and distribution of water amongst the
members of an association;
(b) the management and protection of any water source;
(c) the drainage of the land where water is used; and
(d) any other matter which the Basin Water Board considers
necessary or desirable. [s. 83]
PART IX
PROVISIONS RELATED TO WATER
RESOURCES MANAGEMENT WORKS
85.–(1) Subject to the provisions of this Act and the Water
Resources Management Plan, a Basin Water Board may, for
Registration
of water users
association
Powers of Basin
Water Board to
give directions
Powers of Basin
Water Boards to
undertake works

Board may, for
Registration
of water users
association
Powers of Basin
Water Board to
give directions
Powers of Basin
Water Boards to
undertake works

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
514
purposes of sustainable development of water resources or the
performance of any of its functions under this Act-
(a) construct, use or operate any works; and
(b) divert, extract and impound the water from any water
course or borehole or alter the course of any water
course. (2) Any land need for purposes of subsection (1) may be
acquired in accordance with the procedures stipulated under
the Land Acquisition Act and the Land Act. [s. 84]
86. Where a Basin Water Board has granted a water use permit
or a discharge permit subject to the construction or alteration
of works, the Basin Water Board shall have powers to monitor
and enforce the requirement for such construction or alteration
of works in accordance with regulations made by the Minister. [s. 85]
PART X
DAM SAFETY AND FLOOD MANAGEMENT
87.

t for such construction or alteration
of works in accordance with regulations made by the Minister. [s. 85]
PART X
DAM SAFETY AND FLOOD MANAGEMENT
87.

In this Part-
“approved professional person” means a person capable
of undertaking dam safety and risk analysis and is
registered in terms of the Engineers Registration Act
and the Construction Registration Act and approved
by the Director after consultation with the Engineers
Registration Board, the Contractors Registration Board
and appropriate statutory bodies;
“dam” includes any existing or proposed structure which
is capable of containing, storing or impounding water,
including temporary impoundment or storage, whether
that water contains any substance or not;
“dam with a safety risk” means any dam-
(a) which can contain, store or dam more than 50,000
cubic metres of water, whether that water contains any
Caps. 118 and 113
Powers of basin
water boards in
respect of permits
conditional on
construction of
works
Interpretation
Caps. 63 and 235

contains any
Caps. 118 and 113
Powers of basin
water boards in
respect of permits
conditional on
construction of
works
Interpretation
Caps. 63 and 235

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.515
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
substance or not, and which has a wall of a vertical
height of more than five metres, measured as the
vertical difference between the lowest downstream
ground elevation on the outside of the dam wall and
the non-overspill crest level or the general top level of
the dam wall;
(b) tailings dam which impounds a mine whose principal
use is for storage of mine tailings, but may have
secondary use for the storage of mine process water; or
(c) belonging to a category of dams declared under section
92 to be dams with a safety risk.

e
secondary use for the storage of mine process water; or
(c) belonging to a category of dams declared under section
92 to be dams with a safety risk.

“owner of a dam” includes the person in control of that dam;
“tailings” means fine materials in suspension which are
discharged from an ore concentrator or coal washing
plant;
“tailings dam” means a structure constructed to create a
tailings pond for storing mining tailings and process
water; and
“task” includes a task relating to designing, constructing,
altering, repairing, impounding water in, operating,
evaluating the safety of, maintaining, monitoring or
abandoning a dam with a safety risk. [s. 86]
88.–(1) A person shall not engage in any construction activity
that blocks or otherwise impedes the flow of water in a water
course unless a permit authorising the activity has been
obtained in accordance with the provisions of Part VII. (2) The Director or Basin Water Director may take all
reasonable measures to remove or to mitigate the effects of an
unauthorised blockage of a water course and may recover the
cost of such measures from the person or persons responsible
for the blockage.

fects of an
unauthorised blockage of a water course and may recover the
cost of such measures from the person or persons responsible
for the blockage.

(3) A person responsible for causing unauthorised blockage
of a water course shall be responsible for any damage to persons,
property, or the environment caused by the unauthorised
Blockage of water
courses
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 2

all be responsible for any damage to persons,
property, or the environment caused by the unauthorised
Blockage of water
courses
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 2

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
516
blockage, which damage shall be determined and assessed by
a court of law. (4) The Director or Basin Water Director may bring an action
for damage against any person or persons responsible for the
blockage of a water course, for the purpose of compensation
for any damage to the environment and other uses downstream
caused by the blockage. [s.

he
blockage of a water course, for the purpose of compensation
for any damage to the environment and other uses downstream
caused by the blockage. [s.

87]
89.–(1) The owner of a dam shall-
(a) before submitting an application for a water use permit
in accordance with the provisions of Part VII or within
the period specified, provide the Basin Water Director
and the Director with-
(i) any information, drawings, specifications, design
assumptions, calculations, documents and test
results requested by the Director or the Basin
Water Director; and
(ii) a copy of the statement and certificate issued in
accordance with the provisions of Part V of the
Environmental Management Act; and
(b) give any person authorised by the Director access to
that dam, to enable that authorised officer to determine
whether-
(i) that dam has safety risk;
(ii) that dam shall be declared to be a dam with a
safety risk;
(iii) a directive shall be issued for specific repairs or
alterations to that dam; or
(iv) the owner has complied with any provisions of
this Act applicable to that dam. (2) The Director may by notice in the Gazette declare a
category of dams to be dams with a safety risk. (3) The Director may direct the owner of a dam with a safety
risk to-
Control measures
for dams with
safety risk
Act No. 8 of 2022 ss. 2
and 16
Cap. 191

) The Director may direct the owner of a dam with a safety
risk to-
Control measures
for dams with
safety risk
Act No. 8 of 2022 ss. 2
and 16
Cap. 191

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THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(a) submit, at the owner’s cost, and within a period specified
by the Director, a report by an approved professional
person regarding the safety of that dam; and
(b) undertake, at the owner’s cost, and within a period
specified by the Director, any specific repairs or
alterations to that dam which are necessary to protect
the public, property or the resource quality from a risk
of failure of the dam. (4) The Director shall afford affected persons the opportunity
to petition for the review and evaluation of any dam reasonably
believed to be a dam with a safety risk and shall provide the
owner of any dam that is the subject of such a petition, a right
to respond. (5) Where the owner of the dam fails to comply with the
directive contemplated in subsection (3)(b), within the period
specified, the Director may undertake the repairs or alterations
and recover the costs from the owner.

mplated in subsection (3)(b), within the period
specified, the Director may undertake the repairs or alterations
and recover the costs from the owner.

(6) Before issuing a directive, the Director shall-
(a) be satisfied that the repairs or alterations directed are
necessary, adequate, effective and appropriate to reduce
the risk to an acceptable level; and
(b) consider the impact on public safety, property, the
resource quality and socio-economic aspects if the
dam fails. (7) The Director shall, at owner’s costs, undertake dam site
verification and review of design report in such manner as
may be prescribed in the regulations. [s. 88]
90.–(1) When carrying out a task in terms of this Part, an
approved professional person shall equally assume the duty
of care towards the Government and the general public. (2) An approved professional person appointed to carry out
a task on a dam shall-
(a) ensure that the task is carried out according to
acceptable dam engineering practices;
Responsibilities
of approved
professional
persons

am shall-
(a) ensure that the task is carried out according to
acceptable dam engineering practices;
Responsibilities
of approved
professional
persons

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
518
(b) keep the prescribed records;
(c) compile the prescribed reports; and
(d) where the task includes constructing, altering or
repairing a dam, issue a completion certificate to the
owner of the dam to the effect that the task on that dam
has been carried out according to the applicable design,
drawings and specifications. (3) An approved professional person appointed to carry out
a dam safety evaluation shall-
(a) consider whether the safety norms pertaining to
the design, construction, monitoring, operation,
performance and maintenance of the dam satisfy
acceptable dam engineering practices; and
(b) compile a report on the matters contemplated
in subsection (3)(a) according to the prescribed
requirements and submit the signed and dated report
to the owner of the dam within the prescribed period. [s. 89]
91.–(1) The owner of a dam with or without a safety risk shall
be required to register the dam.

owner of the dam within the prescribed period. [s. 89]
91.–(1) The owner of a dam with or without a safety risk shall
be required to register the dam.

(2) An application for registration of a dam shall be made
within one hundred and twenty days-
(a) after the date on which the dam becomes capable of
containing, storing or impounding water;
(b) after the date on which an already completed dam is
declared to be a dam; or
(c) after publication of a notice declaring a category of
dams to be dams with a safety risk. (3) A successor-in-title to the owner of a dam with or
without safety risk shall promptly inform the Director of the
succession for the substitution of the name of the owner. [s. 90]
92. In declaring a category of dams or a dam to be a category
of dam or a dam with a safety risk, the Director shall consider-
Registration
of dams with
safety risk
Factors to be
considered in
declaring dams
with safety risk

dam with a safety risk, the Director shall consider-
Registration
of dams with
safety risk
Factors to be
considered in
declaring dams
with safety risk

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.519
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(a) the need to protect the public, property and the resource
quality against the potential hazard posed by the dam
or category of dams;
(b) the extent of potential loss or harm involved;
(c) the cost of any prescribed measures and whether they
are reasonably achievable;
(d) the socio-economic impact if such a dam fails;
(e) in the case of a particular dam the Director shall also
consider-
(i) the manner in which that dam is designed,
constructed, altered, repaired, operated, inspected,
maintained or abandoned;
(ii) the person by whom that dam is designed,
constructed, altered, repaired, operated, inspected,
maintained or abandoned; and
(iii) the manner in which the water is contained, stored
or impounded in that dam. [s. 91]
93.–(1) The Minister may, on the recommendation of the
Director, exempt a dam belonging to a certain category, by
notice in the Gazette, from compliance with any provision of
this Part or any regulation made under this Act, on conditions
determined by the Minister.

otice in the Gazette, from compliance with any provision of
this Part or any regulation made under this Act, on conditions
determined by the Minister.

(2) The Minister may withdraw the exemption or impose
further or new conditions in respect of the exemption. (3) Before deciding on an exemption, the Director shall
consider-
(a) the degree of risk or potential risk posed by the dam
or category of dams to public safety, property and the
resource quality;
(b) the manner of design, construction, alteration, repair,
impoundment of water in, operation or abandonment
of the dam or category of dams;
(c) the supervision involved in the dam or category of
dams;
Exemptions

oundment of water in, operation or abandonment
of the dam or category of dams;
(c) the supervision involved in the dam or category of
dams;
Exemptions

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
520
(d) alternative measures proposed for regulating the
design, construction, alteration, repair, operation,
maintenance, impoundment of water in, inspection or
abandonment of the dam or category of dams and the
effectiveness of these measures;
(e) the knowledge and expertise of the persons involved in
any task relating to the dam or category of dams;
(f) comments solicited from the surrounding communities;
(g) the costs relating to the dam or category of dams;
(h) any security provided or intended to be provided for
any damage which could be caused by the dam or
category of dams;
(i) recommendations made in an environmental impact
assessment or an environmental audit report; and
(j) whether the dam or category of dams are permitted in
terms of a license or any other authorisation issued by
or under any other law. [s. 92]
94.–(1) The owner of the dam with or without safety risk shall
carry out the comprehensive facility review after every five
years.

other law. [s. 92]
94.–(1) The owner of the dam with or without safety risk shall
carry out the comprehensive facility review after every five
years.

(2) Where an earthquake or a land slide has occurred
proximate to a dam, the owner of the dam shall carry out a
periodic review of the dam. (3) After carrying out a comprehensive facility review or a
periodic facility review, the owner of the dam shall submit a
report to the Director. (4) The Director shall review the report and issue directives
to owner of the dam on remedial measures to be taken to
remedy any risk. [s. 93]
95.–(1) The Minister may, in relation to dam security and
safety, make regulations in respect of-
Review of dam
facilities
Regulations
regarding dam
safety and
prevention of
flood risk

ion to dam security and
safety, make regulations in respect of-
Review of dam
facilities
Regulations
regarding dam
safety and
prevention of
flood risk

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.521
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(a) the establishment of a register of approved professional
persons to inspect and monitor dams with a safety risk;
(b) the provision for technical audit of the work of approved
professional persons;
(c) classifying dams into categories;
(d) providing for the construction, maintenance and repair
of dams;
(e) requiring the owner of a dam with a safety risk to
accomplish regular monitoring of the dam, to the
extent and in the manner prescribed;
(f) requiring the registration of a specific dam with a safety
risk, and setting out the procedure and the processing
fee payable for registration;
(g) requiring an approved professional person appointed
for a specific purpose for a specific dam to submit
information, drawings, reports and manuals;
(h) requiring the owner of a dam with a safety risk to
accomplish regular monitoring of the dam, to the
extent and manner prescribed; and
(i) specifying time periods that shall be complied with.

ty risk to
accomplish regular monitoring of the dam, to the
extent and manner prescribed; and
(i) specifying time periods that shall be complied with.

(2) In making regulations under subsection (1), the Minister
shall consider-
(a) the expertise required for the effective design,
construction, alteration, repair, operation,
maintenance and abandonment of a dam in the
category concerned; and
(b) the qualifications and experience needed to provide the
expertise for a particular category of tasks. (3) Before making regulations under subsection (1), the
Minister shall consult the Contractors Registration Board
established under the Contractors Registration Act, the
Engineers Registration Board established under the Engineers
Registration Act and any other appropriate statutory bodies. [s. 94]
Caps. 63 and 235

the
Engineers Registration Board established under the Engineers
Registration Act and any other appropriate statutory bodies. [s. 94]
Caps. 63 and 235

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
522
96.

erved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
522
96.

For the purpose of preventing or minimising the risk of
flooding, flood damage and water pollution, the Minister may-
(a) prohibit the construction on submersible lands of dikes,
levees or other structures likely to hinder the runoff
of floodwater; provided that authorisation may be
granted for the development of such structures if they
are determined to be necessary for the protection of
already existing residences or other private structures;
(b) alter or demolish dikes, embankments, levees,
structures or other works, irrespective of their legal
status, if they are determined by the Minister to hinder
water runoff or to extend the flood plain with harmful
results;
(c) prohibit the growing of crops, the building of structures
or the placing of deposits on land located between a
water course and any protective dikes, embankments
or levees;
(d) cooperate with local government authorities in
determining the geographic extent of floodplain
areas and assist such authorities in regulating the
development and use of lands within such areas; and
(e) in consultation with the Minister responsible for
local government, develop regulations providing for
the control and management of storm water within
municipal areas.

ith the Minister responsible for
local government, develop regulations providing for
the control and management of storm water within
municipal areas.

[s. 95]
PART XI
FINANCIAL PROVISIONS
97.–(1) The Basin Water Boards may, by notice in the Gazette,
announce charges to be levied in respect of-
(a) water abstraction;
(b) effluent discharge;
(c) payment for environmental services;
(d) granting of permits required under this Act; and
Measures for
flood mitigation
and control
Water abstraction
charges

t for environmental services;
(d) granting of permits required under this Act; and
Measures for
flood mitigation
and control
Water abstraction
charges

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.523
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(e) any other matter for which the Basin Water Board
considers, charges shall be made pursuant to this Act. (2) The water abstraction charges that may be announced
by the Basin Water Boards shall, among other things, be based
on a pricing strategy that take into consideration of-
(a) the need to differentiate among geographical areas,
categories of water uses and water users;
(b) the need to achieve an equitable and efficient allocation
of water and water conservation;
(c) the compliance with prescribed standards and water
management practices based on the user pays and
polluter pays principles;
(d) the need to provide for incentives for timely payment
of the charges and disincentives for non-payment; and
(e) the value of water by using economic parameters such
as inflation rate, market values and opportunity costs
of water. (3) The Minister shall make regulations and guidelines on
charges to be levied under this section. [s. 96]
98.

values and opportunity costs
of water. (3) The Minister shall make regulations and guidelines on
charges to be levied under this section. [s. 96]
98.

The charges collected shall be used for-
(a) financing water resources management, including
costs of-
(i) gathering information;
(ii) monitoring water resources and their use;
(iii) controlling water resources;
(iv) water resources protection, including controlling
the discharges of waste water; and
(v) the protection of the water sources and water
conservation; and
(b) funding of water resources development and
construction of waterworks, including-
(i) the costs of investigation, designing, planning and
construction;
(ii) the pre-financing of development;
Use of water
charges

terworks, including-
(i) the costs of investigation, designing, planning and
construction;
(ii) the pre-financing of development;
Use of water
charges

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
524
(iii) the costs of operation and maintenance of
waterworks;
(iv) the costs of water distribution and ensuring
equitable and efficient allocation of water; and
(v) carrying out any other activities or measures
for purposes of improving water resources
management and catchment conservation by the
local government authorities, the Basin Water
Boards, the Catchment Water Committees and
the water users associations. [s. 97]
99.–(1) Where, after the time fixed for the payment of any
rate, a person fails to pay any rate due to him, the respective
Basin Water Board shall cause a written demand to be issued
to such person and require him to pay the amount stated in
such demand within thirty days after service of the demand. (2) The provisions of the Civil Procedure Code relating to
summary procedure shall apply mutatis mutandis in respect of
any person who has defaulted to settle water rates due under
this Act. [s.

de relating to
summary procedure shall apply mutatis mutandis in respect of
any person who has defaulted to settle water rates due under
this Act. [s.

97A]
PART XII
TRANS-BOUNDARY WATERS
100.–(1) The Minister may develop policies and strategies for
the purpose of ensuring sustainable, equitable utilisation and
management of trans-boundary waters. (2) Where, the United Republic is a party to international
or regional agreement concerning the management of trans-
boundary waters the Minister shall-
(a) initiate and prepare legislative proposals for purposes
of implementing those agreements; and
(b) identify appropriate measures necessary for the
implementation of those agreements. Summary
procedure
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 17
Cap. 33
Policies, strategies
and legislation in
respect to trans-
boundary waters

ation of those agreements. Summary
procedure
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 17
Cap. 33
Policies, strategies
and legislation in
respect to trans-
boundary waters

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.525
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(3) The Director shall keep a register of all international
and regional agreements concerning the utilisation and
management of trans-boundary waters to which the United
Republic is a party. [s. 98]
101.

ional
and regional agreements concerning the utilisation and
management of trans-boundary waters to which the United
Republic is a party. [s. 98]
101.

The Minister may, in relation to trans-boundary waters-
(a) participate with neighbouring riparian states in the
establishment and continuing development of a
common database regarding the use of trans-boundary
waters;
(b) engage in the joint management planning and
development of joint projects including inter-basin
transfers with other riparian states within the trans-
boundary waters for the purpose of promoting
economic growth, equitable utilisation of water
resources, environmental integrity and common
understanding;
(c) establish and promote cooperation and institutional
relationships between river basin organisations within
Mainland Tanzania and international river basin
organisations;
(d) ensure stakeholder participation as part of the
development of the Government’s position concerning
trans-boundary waters;
(e) develop and improve capacity of Mainland Tanzania
for participation in shared water resource consultations
and international river basin organisations;
(f) establish or participate in the establishment of
mechanisms for the prevention, management and
resolution of disputes relating to trans-boundary
waters; and
(g) undertake any other activity in relation to trans-
boundary beneficial to Mainland Tanzania.

on of disputes relating to trans-boundary
waters; and
(g) undertake any other activity in relation to trans-
boundary beneficial to Mainland Tanzania.

[s. 99]
Minister and
management of
trans-boundary
waters

[s. 99]
Minister and
management of
trans-boundary
waters

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
526
102.

rved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
526
102.

The Minister, in performing his functions in respect to
trans-boundary waters, shall cause to be collected and analysed
all the relevant data and information including, inter alia:
(a) the water balance for each trans-boundary water that
compares forecasted water demand with data and
information regarding water availability;
(b) the volume of water abstracted and beneficially used
within Mainland Tanzania and other riparian states
from each trans-boundary waters;
(c) the nature of the beneficial uses within Mainland
Tanzania supported by each trans-boundary waters,
including the economic value of the uses;
(d) the number of persons within Mainland Tanzania who
rely upon each trans-boundary waters for domestic,
agricultural, commercial or industrial purposes;
(e) the relevant date or dates upon which the abstraction of
water from each trans-boundary waters for beneficial
use within Mainland Tanzania commenced;
(f) the availability and reliability of alternative sources
of water to support existing beneficial uses within
Mainland Tanzania in the event abstractions from
trans-boundary waters are curtailed;
(g) anticipated increase in demand for water from each
trans-boundary waters reasonably expected to occur
within Mainland Tanzania in the foreseeable future;
(h) the volume and composition of waste discharged from
within Mainland Tanzania into each trans-boundary
waters;
(i) the relevant date or dates upon which the discharge
into each trans-boundary waters commenced;
(j) the environmental integrity of trans-boundary waters
and likely environmental threats including water
pollution in the foreseeable future; and
(k) the availability and reliability of alternative means of
waste disposal within Mainland Tanzania in the event
discharges into trans-boundary waters are curtailed.

lity and reliability of alternative means of
waste disposal within Mainland Tanzania in the event
discharges into trans-boundary waters are curtailed.

[s. 100]
Collection of data
and information
on trans-
boundary waters

[s. 100]
Collection of data
and information
on trans-
boundary waters

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.527
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
PART XIII
OFFENCES, PENALTIES AND
JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS
103. A person who assaults, threatens, resists, obstructs,
hinders, delays or allows any person so to do to an authorised
officer or person in the performance of his powers, functions
or duties under this Act, commits an offence, and on
conviction, shall be liable to a fine of not less than five hundred
thousand shillings and not more than ten million shillings or
imprisonment for a term of not less than one year but not
more than two years or to both, and shall in addition, be liable
to pay compensation sufficient to cover any damage which the
authorised officer or other person may have suffered as a result
of the offence. [s.

able
to pay compensation sufficient to cover any damage which the
authorised officer or other person may have suffered as a result
of the offence. [s.

101]
104.–(1) A person who, in order to procure the grant of a
permit under this Act, willfully makes any statement knowing
the same to be false in any material particular or not having
reason to believe the same to be true commits an offence
and on conviction shall be liable to a fine of not less than five
hundred thousand shillings and not more than five million
shillings or to imprisonment for a term not less than one year
and not more than two years or to both.

ousand shillings and not more than five million
shillings or to imprisonment for a term not less than one year
and not more than two years or to both.

(2) A person who constructs or extends any works contrary
to this Act or fails, without reasonable excuse, to comply with
requirements made under sections 49 and 67 or willfully
obstructs, damages or destroys any works, defaces or moves
any level mark, beacon or other structure or appliance or
obstructs, molests or hinders any authorised officer in the
lawful exercise of his powers or duties under this Act, commits
an offence and on conviction shall, be liable to a fine of not
less than five hundred thousand shillings and not more than
one million shillings or to imprisonment for a term of not less
than three months and not more than one year, or to both, in
Offences to assult,
threaten, resist,
hinder or delay
an authorised
officer
Miscellaneous
offences and
penalties

ot more than one year, or to both, in
Offences to assult,
threaten, resist,
hinder or delay
an authorised
officer
Miscellaneous
offences and
penalties

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
528
the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine of not
less than one million shillings or to imprisonment for a term
not exceeding three years, or to both and in every case where
the offence is a continuing one, to an additional fine of not
less than fifty thousand shillings in respect of every day during
which the offence continues. (3) A person who, on being required to give information
under any provision of this Act, or under any regulation made
under this Act, refuses without reasonable excuse to give such
information or gives information knowing the same to be false,
or having reason to believe the same not to be true, commits
an offence and on conviction, shall be liable to a fine not
exceeding five hundred thousand shillings or to imprisonment
not exceeding two years or to both. [s. 102]
105.

nviction, shall be liable to a fine not
exceeding five hundred thousand shillings or to imprisonment
not exceeding two years or to both. [s. 102]
105.

A person who pollutes the water in any river, stream or
water course or in any body of surface water to such extent
as to be likely to cause injury directly or indirectly to public
health, to livestock or fish, to crops, orchards or gardens
which are irrigated by such water or to any products in the
processing of which such water is used commits an offence
and on conviction, shall be liable to a fine of not less than
one million shillings and not more than ten million shillings
or to imprisonment for a term of not less than six months
but not more than two years or to both and in case of
subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding five million
shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two
years or to both and in case of continuation of the offence,
to an additional fine not exceeding fifty thousand shillings
in respect of every day during which the offence continues. [s. 103]
106.–(1) Where the Basin Water Board is satisfied that
evidence is available that may reasonably support the
bringing of charges against a person for an offence with a fine
Water pollution
Compounding of
offences
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 2

reasonably support the
bringing of charges against a person for an offence with a fine
Water pollution
Compounding of
offences
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 2

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.529
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
not exceeding five hundred thousand shillings under this Act,
and if that person admits in writing to the offence, the Basin
Water Director may compound the offence by accepting from
that person-
(a) a sum of money as fine specified for the offence,
together with all reasonable expenses the Basin Water
Board may have incurred in the inspection, taking and
analysis of samples and measurements in connection
with the offence; and
(b) payment of all fees and charges which may have been
due if the action had been authorised under this Act. (2) The compounding of an offence by a party under this
section shall be a bar to any further criminal proceedings in
respect of the offence. [s.

Act. (2) The compounding of an offence by a party under this
section shall be a bar to any further criminal proceedings in
respect of the offence. [s.

104]
107.–(1) Where a person is convicted of an offence under this
Act and another person has suffered harm or loss as a result
of the act or omission constituting the offence, or damage has
been caused to a water source or works, the court may, in the
same proceedings-
(a) at the written request of the person who suffered the
harm or loss;
(b) at the written request of the Minister or a water
management institution in respect of the damage
caused to a water source or works; or
(c) in the presence of the convicted person, enquire
without pleadings into the harm, loss or damage and
determine the extent thereof. (2) After making a determination in terms of subsection
(1), the court may-
(a) award damages for harm or loss suffered by the person
referred to in subsection (1) against the accused;
(b) order the accused to pay for the cost of any remedial
measures implemented or to be implemented; and
Compensation
for harm, loss or
damage suffered

b) order the accused to pay for the cost of any remedial
measures implemented or to be implemented; and
Compensation
for harm, loss or
damage suffered

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530
(c) order the remedial measures to be implemented, be
undertaken either by the accused or the relevant water
management institution. [s. 105]
108. A person who commits an offence under this Act, for
which no specific penalty is provided, on conviction shall be
liable to a fine of not less than one hundred thousand shillings
but not exceeding three hundred thousand shillings or to
imprisonment for a term of not less than six months but not
exceeding one year or to both. [s. 105A]
PART XIV
APPEALS
109.–(1) The Minister may, by regulations published in the
Gazette, prescribe the procedure of making and hearing appeals
arising from decisions of the Basin Water Boards and may, for
that purpose, establish an Appeals Committee or committees
to be known as the “appellate authority” and provide for the
exercise of the powers and the regulation of the procedure, of
the Appeals Committee or committees.

n as the “appellate authority” and provide for the
exercise of the powers and the regulation of the procedure, of
the Appeals Committee or committees.

(2) Any aggrieved person may appeal to the appellate
authority on-
(a) the refusal of a Basin Water Board to grant or renew
any permit under this Act;
(b) the determination, diminution, modification,
suspension of such permit or by the duration for which
the permit was granted;
(c) the grant of or refusal to grant any easement or by the
conditions subject to which any easement is created;
(d) any requirement that any work is to be constructed,
repaired, added to, altered, demolished or destroyed,
or that the use of any works be changed;
General penalty
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 18
Appeal
regulations

aired, added to, altered, demolished or destroyed,
or that the use of any works be changed;
General penalty
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 18
Appeal
regulations

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.531
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(e) a direction regarding the protection or disposal of
groundwater;
(f) a refusal of a Basin Water Board to approve and register
the constitution of a water users’ association;
(g) a direction of the Basin Water Board issued under
section 84;
(h) any conditions imposed by the Basin Water Board
when granting or renewing any permit under this
Act; and
(i) any such matters as the Minister may subject to this
Act, prescribe in the regulations. (3) The decision of the appellate authority in the matter
shall be final, except that a person submitting an appeal to
the appellate authority may appeal against the decision of the
appellate authority to the Resident Magistrates’ Court or a
District Court-
(i) on a question of law; or
(ii) on the amount of any compensation or costs
awarded.

uthority to the Resident Magistrates’ Court or a
District Court-
(i) on a question of law; or
(ii) on the amount of any compensation or costs
awarded.

(4) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (l), no
person may appeal against the grant or renewal of a permit or
the grant of any easement, who did not make objection to such
grant or renewal to the Basin Water Board in accordance with
the procedures prescribed by the Minister. [s. 106]
PART XV
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
110.–(1) Without prejudice to the provisions of section
107, compensation shall not be payable under any section
of this Act unless a written claim has been lodged with the
responsible Basin Water Board within one year of either the
claimant learning of the action giving rise to the claim, or the
completion of any works in respect of which compensation is
sought, whichever is the later. Compensation
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 19

to the claim, or the
completion of any works in respect of which compensation is
sought, whichever is the later. Compensation
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 19

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532
(2) A claim for compensation shall contain the following
particulars:
(a) the claimant’s name and address;
(b) a description of the land in respect of which the claim
is made;
(c) a statement of the claimant’s interest in the land;
(d) the nature and extent of the interest of any other person
in the land;
(e) the damage alleged to have been caused to the land or
loss of economic benefit;
(f) the particulars of any damage; and
(g) the total amount of claim. (3) Upon consideration of the application for
compensation the Basin Water Board, may award
compensation in the form of-
(a) payment of money;
(b) the remission of rates, charges or fees payable to the
Basin Water Board;
(c) the diminution of any outstanding debt arising out
of this Act or the Water Utilization (Control and
Regulation) Act; and
(d) any other type of award which the Basin Water Board
may consider appropriate.

this Act or the Water Utilization (Control and
Regulation) Act; and
(d) any other type of award which the Basin Water Board
may consider appropriate.

(4) The Basin Water Board shall, within three months, notify
the claimant of its decision on a claim made under subsection
(3) and any person aggrieved by the decision of the Basin
Water Board may appeal in accordance with the provisions of
section 109. (5) Any compensation due under this section which remains
unpaid may be recovered in a civil debt. [s. 107]
111. A notice under this Act shall be deemed to have been
served on, or given to, any person if-
(a) served on him personally, and the recipient has signed
for the receipt of the notice;
Act No. 42 of 1974
Service of notice

iven to, any person if-
(a) served on him personally, and the recipient has signed
for the receipt of the notice;
Act No. 42 of 1974
Service of notice

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THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(b) left for him at his last known address; or
(c) sent by registered post addressed to his last known
address. [s. 108]
112. Subject to any express provisions in this Act, nothing
contained in this Act shall affect the civil liability of a person
for any damage resulting from the-
(a) construction, alteration or destruction of any works or
the failure to maintain the same in proper repair;
(b) obstruction, storage or diversion of any water; and
(c) discharge of any effluent authorised by the Basin Water
Board by a permit to discharge. [s.

b) obstruction, storage or diversion of any water; and
(c) discharge of any effluent authorised by the Basin Water
Board by a permit to discharge. [s.

109]
113.–(1) Without prejudice to the provisions of section 284A
of the Penal Code, the Public Officers (Recovery of Debts)
Act and the relevant provisions of this Act, no member of the
Basin Water Board or a Catchment or Sub-catchment Water
Committee, or an officer of these Boards and Committees or
any authorised officer shall be personally liable for any act or
default which is done or omitted to be done in good faith in
the exercise or purported exercise of the powers conferred by
this Act. (2) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1), a
member of the Basin Water Board or a Catchment or Sub-
catchment Water Committee, or an officer of the Board and
Committee or any authorised officer may be held liable for acts
done contrary to this Act or for omission in implementing the
provisions of this Act. [s. 110]
114.–(1) The Minister may make regulations prescribing
anything which may be prescribed under this Act. (2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1),
the regulations may-
Civil liability not
to be affected
Indemnity and
liability
Caps. Nos. 16 and 76
Power to make
regulations
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 20

the regulations may-
Civil liability not
to be affected
Indemnity and
liability
Caps. Nos. 16 and 76
Power to make
regulations
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 20

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E.

2023]
534
(a) prescribe the registers and records to be kept and the
manner in which they are to be kept;
(b) provide for the forms to be used and the fees to be paid
in respect of any matter required or permitted to be
done under this Act;
(c) provide for the advertisement of applications for the
use of water and for the giving of notice to interested
persons;
(d) provide for and regulate the making of objections to
a Basin Water Board and the time within which such
objections shall be made;
(e) prescribe the quorum of, and the procedure to be
adopted by a Basin Water Board, the manner in which
and the extent to which it shall receive evidence and
hear arguments by objectors and others, and the
manner in which they shall record their findings;
(f) provide for the transfer, to the land register under
the Land Registration Act or to a register maintained
under the Registration of Documents Act particulars
of easements which were registered in the water
right record maintained under the Water Utilization
(Control and Regulation) Act, and which subsist on the
date upon which this Act comes into operation;
(g) provide for regulating the procedure for making
applications for the grant of permits, the making of
objections to any such application, the making of
appeals against refused applications or conditions
imposed on any permits granted, and any other matters
related to the grant of any permit under this Act;
(h) provide for regulating the procedure for the
preparation of water resources management plans
and the involvement of persons with a clear interest in
integrated water resources therein;
(i) provide for the procedure for trading of water permits,
application of economic incentives and pricing of
water use;
Caps.

ater resources therein;
(i) provide for the procedure for trading of water permits,
application of economic incentives and pricing of
water use;
Caps.

334 and 117
Act No. 42 of 1974

334 and 117
Act No. 42 of 1974

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.535
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(j) provide for the implementation of any provision of this
Act; or
(k) permit transfer of water or waste water from one basin
to another basin. [s. 111]
PART XVI
TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS
115.–(1) [Repeals the Water Utilisation (Control and
Regulation) Act].

ater from one basin
to another basin. [s. 111]
PART XVI
TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS
115.–(1) [Repeals the Water Utilisation (Control and
Regulation) Act].

(2) Notwithstanding the repeal of the Water Utilisation
(Control and Regulation) Act-
(a) all proceedings commenced under the repealed Act
and pending before any court immediately before the
commencement of this Act shall be continued and
concluded as if this Act had not been enacted;
(b) proceedings which are pending before any court
otherwise than an appeal from a decision of another
court and such proceedings are for assessment of
compensation, the compensation shall, if the same
has not been assessed, be assessed in accordance with
the provisions of this Act and no compensation shall,
in any proceedings, be awarded in any case in which
no compensation may otherwise be awarded under
this Act;
(c) orders, notices, directions, appointments and other acts
and things lawfully made, issued or done under any of
the provisions of the repealed Act, and made issued or
done before the commencement of this Act, shall be
deemed to have been made, issued or done under the
corresponding provision of this Act, and shall continue
to have effect accordingly; and
(d) any decree or order of the court passed or made before
the commencement of this Act may be enforced as if
this Act had not been enacted.

ngly; and
(d) any decree or order of the court passed or made before
the commencement of this Act may be enforced as if
this Act had not been enacted.

Repeal and
savings
provisions
Act No. 42 of 1974

Repeal and
savings
provisions
Act No. 42 of 1974

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
536
(3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (2), all
entries in the water register made pursuant to the provisions of
the repealed Act shall remain in force until such time as they
may be cancelled pursuant to the provisions of this Act. [s. 112]
116. As soon as reasonably practicable after the commencement
of this Act, and upon public consultation, the Minister shall
publish by notice in the Gazette a plan for the transfer of the
management of water to boards resources to the Basin Water
Boards and Catchment and Sub-catchment Water Commitees
established under this Act.

r of the
management of water to boards resources to the Basin Water
Boards and Catchment and Sub-catchment Water Commitees
established under this Act.

(2) The plan shall-
(a) provide details of the institutional, organisational and
financial arrangements, and capacity building and
other measures to ensure an orderly transfer of water
resources management responsibilities;
(b) prescribe appropriate arrangements for transferring to
the Basin Water Boards ownership of plant, equipment
or other assets used by the Government in connection
with water resources management; and
(c) specify measures to give effect to the plan within a
specified time. [s. 113]
117.–(1) Until the transfer of responsibilities from Government
to the Basin Water Boards, Catchment and Sub-catchment
Water Committees by means of the measures specified in the
plan under section 116 have come into effect, the functions,
responsibilities and powers of the Basin Water or Catchment
or Sub-catchment Water Committee established under this
Act shall be exercised by the following persons respectively-
(a) in respect of the Basin Water Boards, by the Basin Water
Directors in the Ministry responsible for water; and
(b) in respect of Catchment or Sub-catchment Water
Committees, by the Catchment Water Officers.

r
Directors in the Ministry responsible for water; and
(b) in respect of Catchment or Sub-catchment Water
Committees, by the Catchment Water Officers.

Transfer of
responsibilities
to boards and
committees
Transitional
provisions
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 2

Transfer of
responsibilities
to boards and
committees
Transitional
provisions
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 2

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.537
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(2) Where the Basin Water Board or Catchment or
Sub-catchment Water Committee has been constituted in
accordance with the provisions of this Act but has no staff,
the Minister may direct that necessary staff be seconded to
the Basin Water Board, Catchment or Sub-catchment Water
Committee such staff shall be employed by the Basin Water
Board, Catchment or Sub-catchment Water Committee. [s.

ard, Catchment or Sub-catchment Water
Committee such staff shall be employed by the Basin Water
Board, Catchment or Sub-catchment Water Committee. [s.

114]
FIRST SCHEDULE
(Made under section 20(3)
MEMBERSHIP AND PROCEDURE OF
THE NATIONAL WATER BOARD
1.–(1) The National Water Board shall consist of the Chairman and ten
other members to be appointed by the Minister-
(a) up to four representatives from the following sectors -
(i) agriculture;
(ii) energy;
(iii) industry;
(iv) forestry;
(v) environment;
(vi) livestock;
(vii) wildlife;
(viii) lands;
(ix) mining;
(x) irrigation;
(xi) fisheries; or
(xii) infrastructure;
(b) one representative from local government administration;
(c) three representatives from Basin Water Boards;
(d) one representative from Non-Government Organisations;
and
(e) one representatives of the private sector. (2) At least one third of the members of the National Water Board
shall be women. (3) The Director shall be a member of the Board and Secretary
thereto. (4) The Minister shall, by regulations published in the Gazette,
prescribe procedures for the nomination of the representatives set out
in subparagraph (1). Membership of
National Water
Board

blished in the Gazette,
prescribe procedures for the nomination of the representatives set out
in subparagraph (1). Membership of
National Water
Board

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
538
2.–(1) A member shall hold office for a term of three years and shall be
eligible for re-appointment unless-
(a) in the case of a member appointed in his own name, until
such time appointing authority revokes his appointment and
appoints another in his place;
(b) in the case of a member who is appointed by virtue of his
holding some other office, until such time as he ceases to
hold that other office; and
(c) until a member resigns or has been removed by the Minister
in accordance with subparagraph (4). (2) Where a member is, by reason of illness, infirmity or absence
from Mainland Tanzania, unable to attend any meeting of the National
Water Board the appointing authority may appoint a temporary
member in his place and the temporary member shall cease to hold
office on the resumption of office of the substantive member. (3) The National Water Board may co-opt any person for a specified
meeting for the performance of any of its functions, but such a person
shall have no right to vote.

Water Board may co-opt any person for a specified
meeting for the performance of any of its functions, but such a person
shall have no right to vote.

(4) The Minister may only remove a member from the National
Water Board if is reasonably satisfied that such member-
(a) has been absent from formal meetings of the National
Water Board for a period of more than three consecutive
meetings without due cause and without permission from
the Chairman;
(b) has been declared bankrupt, or has committed, or is
reasonably suspected of committing financial irregularities,
or has abused his position to his financial or other advantage;
(c) ceased to be a member or employee of the institution he is
representing;
(d) incompetent and unwilling to carry out the functions as a
member of the National Water Board; and
(e) is of unsound mind. 3.–(1) The National Water Board shall elect one of its members to be
the Vice-Chairman who shall, subject to his continuing to be a member,
hold the office of Vice-Chairman for a term of three years from the date
of his election and shall be eligible for re-election. (2) The National Water Board shall ordinarily meet for the
transaction of its business four times a year and may hold two extra
ordinary meetings to be convened by the Secretary.

shall ordinarily meet for the
transaction of its business four times a year and may hold two extra
ordinary meetings to be convened by the Secretary.

(3) The business of the National Water Board shall be conducted in
such manner as the Minister may, by order published in the Gazette,
prescribe; but where no procedure is prescribed, the National Water
Board shall conduct its business in such manner as it shall determine. 4. The Minister may dissolve the National Water Board. Term of office
and eligibility of
appointment of
members
Proceedings of
National Water
Board
Minister may
dissolve Board

lve the National Water Board. Term of office
and eligibility of
appointment of
members
Proceedings of
National Water
Board
Minister may
dissolve Board

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.539
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
SECOND SCHEDULE
(Made under section 22(4)
MEMBERSHIP AND PROCEDURE
OF BASIN WATER BOARDS
1.–(1) The membership of the Basin Water Board shall be composed of
the following:
(a) Chairman, to be appointed by the Minister;
(b) one representative from private sector water users in the
basin from-
(i) industries;
(ii) mining;
(iii) agriculture; or
(iv) power;
(c) up to three representatives from the Catchment Water
Committees;
(d) up to two representatives from key water related sectors
which are of importance in the Basin, which may include-
(i) agriculture. (ii) energy,
(iii) minerals,
(iv) trade and industry,
(v) forestry,
(vi) environment,
(vii) natural resources,
(viii) lands,
(ix) livestock;
(x) fisheries; and
(xi) infrastructure;
(e) one representative from local government authorities;
(f) one representative from water supply and sanitation
authorities; and
(g) one representative from the Ministry responsible for water.

authorities;
(f) one representative from water supply and sanitation
authorities; and
(g) one representative from the Ministry responsible for water.

(2) Members of the Boards under subparagraph (1) shall be
appointed by the Minister from three names of candidates as nominated
or elected by the relevant sector or organisation. (3) The Basin Water Director shall be the Secretary to the Board. (4) At least one third of members of the Basin Water Board shall be
women. (5) The members of the Basin Water Board shall be involved in and
have adequate knowledge and experience in water resources affairs in
the area of the respective Basin Water Board. Membership
of Basin Water
Boards
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 2

dge and experience in water resources affairs in
the area of the respective Basin Water Board. Membership
of Basin Water
Boards
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 2

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
540
(6) The Minister shall, by regulations published in the Gazette
prescribe the procedures for the nomination of the representatives in
subparagraph (1). 2.–(1) A member shall hold office for a term of three years and shall be
eligible for re-appointment unless-
(a) in the case of a member appointed in his own name, until such
time as the appointing authority revokes his appointment
and appoints another person in his place;
(b) in the case of a member who is appointed by virtue of his
holding some other office, until such time as he ceases to
hold that other office; and
(c) until a member resigns or has been removed by the Minister
in accordance with subparagraph (4). (2) Where any member is, by reason of illness, infirmity or absence
from Mainland Tanzania, unable to attend any meeting of the Basin
Water Board the appointing authority may appoint a temporary
member in his place and the temporary member shall cease to hold
office on the resumption of office of the substantive member.

may appoint a temporary
member in his place and the temporary member shall cease to hold
office on the resumption of office of the substantive member.

(3) The Basin Water Board may co-opt any additional members for
a specified meeting for the performance of any of its functions, but no
co-opted member shall have the right to vote. (4) The Minister may only remove a member from the Basin Water
Board if he is reasonably satisfied that such member-
(a) has been absent from formal meetings of the Basin Water
Board for a period of more than three consecutive meeting
without due cause and without permission from the
Chairman;
(b) has been declared bankrupt, or has committed, or is
reasonably suspected of committing financial irregularities,
or has abused his position to his financial or other advantage;
(c) ceased to be a member or employee of the institution he is
representing;
(d) incompetent and unwilling to carry out the functions as a
member of the Basin Water Board; and
(e) is of unsound mind. 3.–(1) The Basin Water Board shall elect one of its members to be the
Vice-Chairman who shall, subject to his continuing to be a member,
hold the office of Vice-Chairman for a term of three years from the date
of his election and shall be eligible for re-election.

inuing to be a member,
hold the office of Vice-Chairman for a term of three years from the date
of his election and shall be eligible for re-election.

(2) The Basin Water Board shall ordinarily meet for the transaction
of its business four times a year and may hold two extra ordinary
meetings. (3) The business of the Basin Water Board shall be conducted in
such manner as the Minister may, by order published in the Gazette,
Tenure of office
and eligibility of
appointment of
members
Proceedings
of Basin Water
Board

er as the Minister may, by order published in the Gazette,
Tenure of office
and eligibility of
appointment of
members
Proceedings
of Basin Water
Board

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.541
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
prescribe; but where no procedure is prescribed, the Basin Water Board
shall conduct its business in such manner as it shall determine. 4. The members of the Board shall be paid such allowance as the
Minister may determine. THIRD SCHEDULE
(Made under section 29(3))
MEMBERSHIP AND PROCEDURE OF CATCHMENT
AND SUB-CATCHMENT WATER COMMITTEES
1.–(1) The Catchment Water Committee shall be composed of not less
than three and not more than five members which shall comprise the
following-
(a) a Chairman to be appointed by the Basin Water Board;
(b) one representative from major private sector water users
in the catchment area, for example industries, mining,
agriculture, power producers;
(c) up to two representatives from the water users associations
in the catchment area;
(d) one representative from the local government authorities in
the catchment area. (2) All members under items (b), (c) and (d) shall be appointed by
the respective Basin Water Board.

cal government authorities in
the catchment area. (2) All members under items (b), (c) and (d) shall be appointed by
the respective Basin Water Board.

(3) At least one-third of the members of the Catchment Water
Committee shall be women. (4) The members of the Catchment Water Committee shall be
involved in and have adequate knowledge and experience in water
resources affairs in the catchment area. (5) The Catchment Water Officer shall be the ex-officio Secretary of
the Catchment Committee. (6) The Minister shall, by regulations published in the Gazette,
prescribe the procedures for the nomination of the representatives in
subparagraph (1 ). 2.–(1) A member shall, hold office for a term of three years and shall be
eligible for re-appointment unless-
(a) in the case of a member appointed in his own name, until such
time as the appointing authority revokes his appointment
and appoints another person in his place;
(b) in the case of a member who is appointed by virtue of his
holding some other office, until such time as he ceases to
hold that other office; and
Remuneration of
members
Membership of
Catchment Water
Committees
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 21
Term of office
and eligibility of
appointment of
members
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 21

bers
Membership of
Catchment Water
Committees
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 21
Term of office
and eligibility of
appointment of
members
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 21

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
542
(c) until a member resigns or has been removed by the Minister
in accordance with subparagraph (4). (2) Where a member is, by reason of illness, infirmity or absence from
Mainland Tanzania, unable to attend any meeting of the Catchment
Water Committee the appointing authority may appoint a temporary
member in his place and the temporary member shall cease to hold
office on the resumption of office of the substantive member. (3) The Catchment Water Committee may co-opt any additional
members for a specified meeting for the performance of any of its
functions, but no co-opted member shall have the right to vote.

o-opt any additional
members for a specified meeting for the performance of any of its
functions, but no co-opted member shall have the right to vote.

(4) The Basin Water Board may only remove a member from the
Catchment Water Committee if he is reasonably satisfied that such
member-
(a) has been absent from formal meetings of the Catchment
Water Committee for a period of more than three consecutive
meetings without due cause and without permission from
the Chairman;
(b) has been declared bankrupt, or has committed, or is
reasonably suspected of committing financial irregularities,
or has abused his position to his financial or other advantage;
(c) ceased to be a member or employee of the institution he is
representing;
(d) incompetent and unwilling to carry out the functions as a
member of the Catchment Water Committee; and
(e) is of unsound mind. 3. The proceedings and business of the Catchment Water Committee
shall be conducted in such manner as the Basin Water Board may
determine. 4. Where a Sub-catchment Water committee is established by a Basin
Water Board, this Schedule shall apply mutatis mutandis to such Sub-
catchment Water Committees.

b-catchment Water committee is established by a Basin
Water Board, this Schedule shall apply mutatis mutandis to such Sub-
catchment Water Committees.

FOURTH SCHEDULE
(Made under section 82(1))
CONSTITUTION OF THE WATER USERS ASSOCIATION
1.–(1) There is hereby formed the Water Users Association hereinafter
referred to as the “Association”. (2) The Association, including its Management Committee, shall
have the status of a legal person and in that capacity it shall be capable
of suing and being sued. (3) The liability of any venture of the Association shall be limited. Proceedings
and business of
Catchment Water
Committee
Application to
Sub-Catchment
Water committees
Constitution
of Water Users
Association

e limited. Proceedings
and business of
Catchment Water
Committee
Application to
Sub-Catchment
Water committees
Constitution
of Water Users
Association

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.543
THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
(4) The members of the Association shall be villagers, institutions,
companies, committees and authorities or any person natural or
legal, as may be users of water from sources located within the area of
responsibility of the Association. 2.

and authorities or any person natural or
legal, as may be users of water from sources located within the area of
responsibility of the Association. 2.

The objects of the Association shall be to:
(a) manage, distribute and conserve water from a source used
jointly by the members of the Association;
(b) to construct, rehabilitate operate and maintain any works for
the purposes of management of the water resource in its area
of responsibility;
(c) arbitrate in the resolution of conflicts between holders of
water use permits with its area of responsibility;
(d) agree by consensus of its members equitable reductions in
the quantities of water abstracted from the source under its
responsibility in times of drought or other restrictions on
resource availability;
(e) acquire and operate any water use permit under the
provisions of this Act; and
(f) do such other things as may be considered necessary by
a majority of its members in order to manage the water
resources in its area in a fair and equitable manner in
accordance with the intent and provisions of this Act. 3. [Omitted.]
4.–(1) An Annual General Meeting shall be held once each year. (2) An Extra-ordinary General Meeting of the Association may
be called by five percent of members giving two weeks notice to the
Secretary in writing.

(2) An Extra-ordinary General Meeting of the Association may
be called by five percent of members giving two weeks notice to the
Secretary in writing.

(3) One third of the full number of members containing no fewer
than four from each of the upper and the lower area of the catchment or
from each village present shall constitute a quorum. (4) Voting can be exercised by a member or proxy, provided that the
proxy form is in the hands of the Secretary prior to the meeting. (5) A majority of votes at the Annual General Meeting shall decide
the principles governing conservation, maintenance of works in the
river in question and shall decide the assessments to be levied thereof
and for expenses of the Association. 5.–(1) A Management Committee shall be elected at the Annual
General Meeting of the Entity and shall consist of six elected members
and at least two members shall be women. (2) The Committee so elected may sue and be sued in the name of
the Association for moneys or otherwise, and shall have the powers to
bind the Entity by contract. Objects of
Association
Omitted
Proceedings
of Water Users
Association
Management
Committee
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 22

ers to
bind the Entity by contract. Objects of
Association
Omitted
Proceedings
of Water Users
Association
Management
Committee
Act No. 8 of 2022 s. 22

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT [CAP. 331 R.E. 2023]
544
(3) The Committee shall collect and receive any moneys due to the
Association and pay moneys owing to the Association and open and
maintain a bank account through its authorised officers and submit
such annual audited accounts to the Association at the Annual General
Meeting. (4) The Management Committee shall meet not less than once in
each quarter of the year and all elected members must be present. (5) The Management Committee shall meet once in each quarter
of the year and the quorum of the Committee shall be two thirds of all
members. (6) The Management Committee shall also decide the extent,
manner and time of levying the assessments laid down by the Annual
General Meeting of the Association. (7) The Management Committee shall appoint and employ such
employees as may be necessary to fulfill the purposes of the Association. 6.

e Association. (7) The Management Committee shall appoint and employ such
employees as may be necessary to fulfill the purposes of the Association. 6.

A member of the Association making default in payment of any fees
or moneys so assessed and after receiving notice from the Committee
shall, if such amount be correct, be personally liable to the Association. 7. The Association shall not be liable for any indebtedness other than
that contracted by its Committee duly authorised in writing. 8. Each member hereby undertakes with other members and each of
them as follows:
(a) to pay entrance fees as being elected to the Association, the
amount set by General Meeting;
(b) to pay all assessments levied against him by the Association;
and
(c) that he will not draw from the source more water than the
amount specified, save as authorised by the Committee and
will observe rules or regulations made by the Association. Liability of
members of
Association
Liability of
Association
Undertaking by
members