The Msimbazi River Basin, a crucial artery of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s bustling metropolis, has long been plagued by the scourge of flooding. These inundations, exacerbated by urbanization and climate change, have wreaked havoc on communities, infrastructure, and the city’s economic vitality. In response to this pressing challenge, the Msimbazi Basin Development Project (MBDP) emerges as a beacon of hope, promising to transform this flood-prone region into a resilient and thriving urban hub. The MBDP, a collaborative effort between the Government of Tanzania and the World Bank Group, aims to tackle the root causes of flooding in the Msimbazi Basin while simultaneously fostering sustainable urban development. The project encompasses a comprehensive set of interventions, including the construction of flood control infrastructure, the implementation of nature-based solutions, and the resettlement of flood-prone communities to safer locations.
Protecting Lives and Livelihoods: The MBDP’s overarching objective is to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of the approximately 1.6 million people who reside within the Msimbazi Basin. Recurrent flooding has not only caused fatalities and property damage but has also disrupted livelihoods, hindered economic activities, and exacerbated poverty. The project’s flood mitigation measures, such as the construction of retention ponds and drainage canals, will significantly reduce the risk of inundation, ensuring the safety and well-being of basin residents.
Enhancing Urban Resilience: The MBDP extends beyond flood mitigation to encompass a holistic approach to urban resilience. The project will strengthen the capacity of local institutions to manage flood risks, promote climate-resilient urban planning, and raise awareness among communities on flood preparedness and safety measures. These initiatives will empower Dar es Salaam to withstand the challenges of climate change and build a more resilient future.
Catalyzing Sustainable Development
The MBDP recognizes that flood mitigation is inextricably linked to sustainable urban
development. By addressing the flood threat, the project will unlock opportunities for
economic growth and social progress. The revitalized Msimbazi Basin will attract
investments, facilitate business expansion, and create employment opportunities, fostering a
vibrant and prosperous urban landscape.
A Beacon of Hope for Dar es Salaam
The Msimbazi Basin Development Project stands as a beacon of hope for Dar es Salaam,
promising to transform a flood-prone region into a resilient and thriving urban hub. By
mitigating flood risks, enhancing urban resilience, and catalyzing sustainable development,
the project will safeguard the lives and livelihoods of basin residents, revitalize the city’s
economy, and pave the way for a brighter future for Dar es Salaam.