Location: Iringa, Tanzania
Sector: Dams/Agricultural Infrastructure
MBB Consulting Services (PMB) is proud to announce that the Matembo Dam project, contracted by ASAS Dairies Ltd, is nearing completion. Located northeast of Iringa in southwestern Tanzania, the dam forms a vital part of ASAS’s long-term strategy to expand crop production in support of its dairy operations.
Project Purpose
The dam has been constructed to supply irrigation water to both existing agricultural lands and new lands planned for future development. This will significantly enhance crop yields while enabling year-round farming, which includes an extended dry season from May to October of each year.
By increasing irrigation capacity, ASAS Dairies aims to ensure consistent forage production and contribute to food security through more resilient and efficient agricultural practices.
Technical Overview
- Dam Capacity: 3.1 million m3
- Water Depth: 16.5 metres
- Crest Height: 20.0 metres (providing 3.5m freeboard)
- River: Mbungu River
- Design: Composite dam with:
- Central mass concrete spillway (23,000 m³) with ogee crest, stepped back face and downstream stilling basin
- Zoned earth embankments on both flanks (116,000 m³), with integrated drainage and filters
- Emergency bywash spillway for extreme flood events
- Dual 600 mm diameter outlet pipes
- 6m wide bridge deck supported on piers over the main spillway, serving as the main access to the farm
The dam design carefully considers the surrounding environment and existing infrastructure, especially the nearby main tarred road linking Iringa to Morogoro, which lies just north of the dam site. The structure’s height was limited to ensure zero impact on this important transport link.
Supervision and Progress
Through Mike Udal, a dedicated APP Dam Engineer, MBB has been providing ongoing on-site supervision since September 2024.Our team has guided the project from initial investigations and detailed design through to construction monitoring of the construction by the owners, ensuring all works are delivered in accordance with the design and to applicable dam safety standards.
The Matembo Dam is currently around 80% complete, with completion expected by the end of September 2025, in time for the October rainy season.
Looking Ahead
This project shows what’s possible when great teamwork, smart engineering, and thoughtful planning all come together. We are proud to have supported ASAS Dairies in realizing this milestone and look forward to the dam fulfilling its role in driving sustainable agricultural growth for the group, with huge socio-economic benefits being provided through employment and training opportunities in the Iringa region.
For more information or to learn about our water infrastructure services,
please contact us at:
infopmb@mbb.co.za | 
www.mbb.co.za
