Dissertation (MA Development Studies)This study, aimed at examining the role played by community in public water projects. By analyzing the contribution provided by people, in participating on water projects the study also intended to identify factors which in one way or another could influence and hence, impact on the level of community participation as well as their contribution in those projects. The study was conducted at Kiwalani Ward of the Ilala district in Dar es Salaam region July, 2015. A cross-sectional research design was opted. The study, involved 100 heads of household as community members, from the selected streets and 6 key informants were chosen and total 106 of the selected sample to the field area. Data were collected by using questionnaires and interviews from the household`s heads and a checklist was used for secondary data from key informants. Data analysis was done using SPSS 16.0 version and Ms excel. Results have shown that, community members can mostly contribute labour force when involved in public water projects while on the extent of participation, the community observed that there was a low level of participation in preparation, managing the project, monitoring and evaluation of projects where in identification, there was a sign of community involvement even in a low rate. However, the participation approach was highly influenced by institutional framework of projects, followed by service reliability and the projects planning approaches. These factors, brought a negative impact in the participation trend. From the study findings, it is suggested that Government should rethink adopting strategic participatory planning approach, which calls for the involvement of projects` beneficiaries, aimed at considering their basic problems, hence, build a sense of ownership and improve projects` functionality to reach the intended goal.