CCM supporter holds shoulder high a poster bearing the portrait of the party’s presidential candidate, President Jakaya Kikwete, at a campaign rally at Mlimba in Morogoro Region yesterday. (Photo: Khalfan Said)

The government is looking for a competent contractor for a major water project designed to end critical shortage in Mlimba, Kilombero district, the CCM presidential candidate Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete has revealed

Addressing a campaign rally in Morogoro region, he said implementation would be done in the context of a broader country programme to ensure reliable supply across villages throughout Tanzania.

“I admit that Mlimba faces serious water shortage but I want to assure you that the government is working on a comprehensive plan to end the problem,” he told the gathering.

He explained that the government had already secured a consultant for overseeing the water project in Mlimba and that currently the government is “looking for the contractor” so that the project can take off immediately.

He said the contractor will be entrusted with the task of putting up necessary infrastructure and networks for supplying water in the village, including laying of water pipes and installation of tanks.

“The objectives is to ensure efficiency and reliable supply of water in different parts of the villages…this is being done by government plus financial support from the development partners,” he said.

On health, the CCM presidential candidate promised to talk to Kilombero district authorities on why Mlimba health centre faces shortage of medicines.

“The government directed district authorities to send requests for drugs to the Medical Stores Department (MSD). I wonder why this district has not done so for Mlimba health centre,” he queried.

Kikwete also promised to construct Kilombero bridge, the second largest after Benjamin Mkapa Bridge.

He said feasibility study on the project has started and construction process would begin soon.

“Before five years end, the bridge will be here,” he stressed.