The Water Supply and Sanitation (WSS) Project has successfully concluded its Special Phase (February 2025 – January 2026), marking an important milestone in our collective commitment to expanding access to water and sanitation financing across Tanzania.

The Special Phase was implemented as a strategic bridge period while preparations for Phase 2 were underway. Rather than slowing down, participating Financial Institutions (FIs) demonstrated resilience, innovation, and strong institutional ownership of WSS lending.

Exceeding Expectations

Despite operating under constrained funding conditions, the results significantly surpassed targets:

• 1,528 loans disbursed (Target: 1,143)
• 14,986 beneficiaries reached (Target: 6,315)
• TZS 3.99 Billion capital mobilized (Target: TZS 1.39 Billion)

These achievements reflect growing market demand for WSS financing and confirm that water and sanitation loans are both socially impactful and commercially viable.

Importantly, 861 women accessed WSS loans during this phase, reinforcing our commitment to financial inclusion and community empowerment.

Innovation and Institutional Commitment

Seventeen Financial Institutions participated during the Special Phase, integrating WSS products either as standalone loans or within existing SME, agriculture, housing, and school financing portfolios. This flexibility has strengthened product sustainability and institutional ownership.

Capacity building remained a core component of the phase. Through targeted physical training, virtual technical sessions, and centralized marketing support, FIs enhanced their skills in product development, credit management, client engagement, and reporting. A major institutional review in December 2025 further strengthened alignment and prepared partners for the transition into Phase 2.

Sustaining Impact Through Partnership

While funding limitations constrained some monitoring and expansion activities, the Special Phase successfully preserved momentum and deepened institutional commitment. The experience has demonstrated that WSS financing contributes meaningfully to both outreach expansion and financial performance within participating institutions.

Entering Phase 2 with Confidence

As we officially transition into Phase 2, we do so with strengthened partnerships, proven demand, and renewed strategic clarity. The foundation laid during the Special Phase positions the project for expanded growth, deeper outreach, and enhanced impact in the years ahead.

We extend sincere appreciation to all participating Financial Institutions, partners, and stakeholders whose dedication made this success possible. Together, we continue advancing sustainable access to water and sanitation financing — strengthening communities while building resilient financial systems.

The journey continues.