1.

QUESTION 01; Discuss with specific examples from Tanzania; the environmental impacts of Dams and
reservoirs.
Positive Impacts of Dams and Reservoirs in Tanzania:
Hydropower Generation: Dams and reservoirs in Tanzania, such as the Kidatu and Mtera
dams on the Rufiji River, have significantly increased the country's electricity generation capacity.
This has helped to improve access to electricity in both urban and rural areas, supporting economic
development and improving living standards (Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited, 2021).
Water Supply: Dams and reservoirs provide a reliable source of water for irrigation,
drinking water supply, and industrial use. For example, the Pangani River Basin Integrated Water
Resources Management Project has improved water availability for agriculture and domestic use in
the Pangani River Basin (United Nations Development Programme, 2019).
Flood Control: Dams can help regulate river flows and reduce the risk of flooding
downstream. The Nyumba ya Mungu Dam on the Pangani River has been instrumental in mitigating
flood impacts in the region and protecting communities and infrastructure from flood damage
(International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 2014).
Recreation and Tourism: Reservoirs created by dams can provide opportunities for
recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Mtera Reservoir, for
example, has become a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts and tourists seeking outdoor
recreation experiences (Tanzania Tourist Board).
Negative Impacts of Dams and Reservoirs in Tanzania
Displacement of Communities: The construction of dams often leads to the displacement
of communities living in the project area. For instance, the construction of the Rufiji Hydropower
Project in Tanzania is expected to displace thousands of people from their homes and land,
impacting their livelihoods and cultural heritage (Human Rights Watch, 2020).
Loss of Biodiversity: Dams can disrupt natural river ecosystems, leading to habitat loss
and fragmentation. The construction of dams in Tanzania, such as the proposed Stiegler's Gorge
Dam in the Selous Game Reserve, poses a threat to wildlife habitats and biodiversity conservation
efforts in the region (World Wide Fund for Nature, 2018).
Water Quality Issues: Reservoirs created by dams can alter water quality by trapping
sediments, nutrients, and pollutants. This can lead to changes in water chemistry, affecting aquatic
ecosystems and water quality for downstream users. The Mtera Reservoir has experienced water
quality issues due to sedimentation and nutrient loading from upstream sources (United Nations
Environment Programme, 2016).
 Erosion and Sedimentation: Dams can alter natural sediment transport processes,
leading to erosion downstream and sediment accumulation in reservoirs. The construction of dams
in Tanzania, such as the proposed Ruhudji Dam on the Ruhudji River, may exacerbate erosion and
sedimentation issues, impacting riverine ecosystems and downstream water quality (International
Journal of Innovative Science & Modern Engineering, 2017).

ANSWERS
2. QUESTION 02; You have been asked to assess the sustainability of a dam project in Northern Tanzania.
How would you proceed? What are the key issues you would consider
ANSWERS
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): In Tanzania, the EIA process is governed by the Environmental
Management Act of 2004. For a dam project in Northern Tanzania, the EIA would involve assessing potential
impacts on the Serengeti ecosystem, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The assessment would also
consider the potential disruption of wildlife migration routes and the impact on water quality in Lake Victoria,
which is a vital water source for the region.

Social Impact Assessment: The social impact assessment would involve engaging with local communities,
particularly those living near the proposed dam site. This would include understanding the potential
displacement of people and the loss of access to traditional fishing grounds or agricultural land. For example,
the proposed dam could impact the livelihoods of the Maasai people who rely on the Mara River for their
livestock and agricultural activities.

Economic Viability: In terms of economic viability, the dam project would need to demonstrate its
contribution to sustainable energy production and economic development in the region. For example, the dam
could provide hydroelectric power to nearby towns and villages, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and
improving access to electricity in rural areas.

Water Management: Given the importance of water resources in Tanzania, the dam project would need
to carefully consider water management. This includes ensuring adequate downstream flow for ecosystems
and communities that rely on the river for agriculture and domestic use. The dam should also consider
potential conflicts over water use between different stakeholders, such as farmers, urban residents, and
wildlife.

Climate Resilience: Tanzania is vulnerable to climate change impacts, including increased droughts and
floods. The dam project should be designed to withstand these challenges and contribute to climate change
mitigation. For example, by providing renewable energy through hydroelectric power, the dam could help
reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with local communities, indigenous groups, and other stakeholders
is crucial for understanding their perspectives and concerns. This could involve conducting public
consultations, involving local leaders and traditional authorities, and ensuring that their voices are heard in the
decision-making process.

Regulatory Compliance: The dam project would need to comply with Tanzania’s environmental
regulations and international standards for sustainable development. This includes obtaining the necessary
permits and approvals from relevant government agencies and ensuring that the project meets environmental
and social safeguards set by international financial institutions if it is funded through such channels.
 Long-Term Monitoring and Maintenance: To ensure the sustainability of the dam project, long-term
monitoring and maintenance plans would need to be put in place. This could involve establishing a system for
regular environmental monitoring, addressing any potential issues that arise, and ensuring ongoing
maintenance to prevent structural or environmental degradation over time.