Tanzania has been ranked among the world’s 10 most improved countries in water and sanitation by the AlTi Global Social Progress Index (AGSPI) 2025, marking a significant milestone in the country’s push toward achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6.
The index, which evaluates 170 countries across 57 indicators, praised Tanzania for consistent gains in clean water access and sanitation infrastructure between 2011 and 2024. Tanzania ranks 126th overall, but its 52.56 score places it in the “improving” category, reflecting an annual increase of more than 0.25 points.
Among the top ten most improved globally, Tanzania joins Nigeria, Mali, Guinea, Lesotho, Somalia, India, Mozambique, Togo, and Laos—eight of which are in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Government reforms, national development strategies, and targeted investments have contributed to the achievement, with officials citing reduced outbreaks of waterborne diseases and improved sanitation services in both rural and urban areas. The third phase of Tanzania’s Five-Year Development Plan emphasizes water as a core pillar of socioeconomic growth.
According to AGSPI, countries like Tanzania are able to “leapfrog” development challenges by adopting new technologies and decentralized systems that bypass outdated infrastructure. The report also identifies water and sanitation as key sectors where socially responsible investors can make meaningful contributions.
Despite notable gains, AGSPI warns that the 2030 SDG deadline is approaching fast, and most countries may fall short unless investments in water, health, and rights are accelerated.
Tanzania’s inclusion among the global leaders in water and sanitation improvement sends a strong message about the country’s developmental trajectory and commitment to human wellbeing.