Geita, Tanzania — Accountability in Public Works
The Deputy Minister for Water, Engineer Kundo Mathew, has directed a formal investigation into the Chato District sewerage project following allegations that the contractor, Peritus Exim Private Limited, abandoned the work. The move signals a broader push by the government to ensure timely completion of essential water and sanitation infrastructure and to safeguard public funds meant for improving living standards in rural and peri-urban communities.
Allegations and Deputy Minister’s Response
Local stakeholders had raised concerns that Peritus Exim Private Limited suspended or halted progress on the project, raising questions about project management, funding continuity, and accountability. In response, Eng. Mathew ordered relevant authorities to gather facts, assess contractual obligations, and determine whether withdrawal or delays stemmed from financial constraints, technical challenges, or mismanagement. The directive emphasizes that no party should be allowed to leave critical public works unfinished, especially those affecting access to safe sanitation and clean water.
Implications for Residents of Chato District
The Chato District sewerage project is part of a broader national strategy to improve sanitation coverage and water reliability. Delays threaten health outcomes, environmental protection, and the district’s development trajectory. Residents have waited for years for reliable sewerage systems that can reduce pollution, prevent disease outbreaks, and support local economic activities. The investigation aims to clarify responsibilities and, where appropriate, implement remedial steps to get the project back on track.
What Comes Next
Authorities will conduct a thorough audit of the contract with Peritus Exim Private Limited, review disbursement records, and evaluate engineering surveys conducted during project inception. Depending on findings, actions could range from contract renegotiation and milestone restructuring to potential penalties or termination. The government has underscored its commitment to transparency and due process, ensuring stakeholders receive timely updates.
Broader Context: Public Infrastructure Oversight
Public infrastructure projects in Tanzania have increasingly come under scrutiny as the demand for reliable water and wastewater services grows. The Deputy Minister’s directive aligns with nationwide efforts to tighten oversight, reduce project slippage, and protect public investments. Critics say robust monitoring and clearer accountability frameworks are essential to preventing future projects from stalling mid-implementation.
Public Assurance and Future Safeguards
Officials have assured residents that the investigation will be public, thorough, and fair. If mismanagement or breach of contract is established, appropriate corrective actions will be taken to recover project timelines and safeguard taxpayer money. In parallel, agencies involved in procurement and project execution are likely to review risk management practices, contractor prequalification, and performance benchmarks to avoid recurrence of similar issues.
Conclusion
The order for an investigation into Peritus Exim Private Limited marks a decisive step by the Ministry of Water to uphold accountability in essential infrastructure projects. As the process unfolds, Chato District and its residents await a clear plan to resume construction, complete the sewerage system, and deliver the health and environmental benefits that come with proper sanitation infrastructure.
