The solar powered water system in Kinyamwenda Village stood tall under the Tanzanian sun as the team of engineers, trainers, and water specialists arrived. They were eager to use their expertise and a new tool to evaluate the system.

With a knowing smile, Kogi Chege, Global Water Center’s Senior Technical Advisor, handed out the Site Assessment Tool. The team made their way down the long path to the borehole, carefully observing every detail along the way. By the end of the site visit, they had identified key design limitations and even debated solutions.

This moment captured the spirit of the RUWASA Co-Facilitators Training, held from February 25-27, 2025. GWC created this three-day workshop to kick off a national capacity-development program with RUWASA, the government agency tasked with supplying safe water to rural communities across the country. 

Bringing Knowledge to Life

The workshop brought together 35 RUWASA staff from across Tanzania as well as GWC team members Heidi Fuller, Kogi Chege, Irene Lemelo, and TJ Johnston. Through hands-on activities, collaborative problem-solving, and dynamic discussions, they explored key concepts, mastered our online learning platform, and built stronger regional connections. By the end, they were equipped to put their knowledge into action.

A Transformative Experience

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 97% of participants saying they would recommend this training to others. Many appreciated the interactive and engaging approach, which kept them actively involved in problem-solving rather than passively listening to lectures.

Some said that the site visit and exercises made learning practical and memorable. Others noted that spending time with colleagues from across Tanzania helped strengthen teamwork and collaboration.

Looking Ahead

The training in Singida was just the beginning. The lessons learned will now ripple throughout the country as participants use their new action plans for assessing SPWS sites in their regions. Then in August, they’ll return for the next phase of in-person training on SPWS design and maintenance, ensuring that RUWASA staff are fully equipped to scale solar powered water solutions across Tanzania.