Residents of Dar es Salaam have raised concerns over what they describe as unusually high water bills, with many households saying the charges do not match their actual water use. The complaints have come from different parts of the city, especially during a period when some areas continue to face irregular water supply.
Several customers say their monthly bills have doubled or even tripled without any clear explanation. Some residents claim they receive water only a few days a week, yet their bills show high consumption. This has caused frustration, especially for low-income families already struggling with the rising cost of living.
In response, the Dar es Salaam Water and Sanitation Authority (Dawasa) has urged affected customers to seek clarification from its offices. Dawasa said the high bills could be caused by leaking pipes, faulty meters, or estimated billing when meter readings are not taken on time.
The authority advised customers to regularly check for leakages within their premises and to ensure that their water meters are functioning properly. Dawasa also encouraged residents to report any suspected billing errors so that investigations can be carried out and corrections made where necessary.
Dawasa officials added that the billing system is based on meter readings and approved tariffs, and the authority does not intend to overcharge customers. They said customer service desks are open to handle complaints and provide guidance on how bills are calculated.
As complaints continue, residents have called for improved transparency, regular meter reading, and better communication from Dawasa to rebuild public trust. Many hope that the authority will address the issue quickly to ease the financial burden on households and ensure fair billing for water services.
