Partnership for a Brighter Future: NWASCO and BORDA Zambia Join Forces to Improve Water Supply and Sanitation

In a groundbreaking move, the National Water Supply and Sanitation Council (NWASCO) and Bremen Overseas Research and Development Association (BORDA) Zambia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to revolutionize water supply, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) standards across Zambia.

NWASCO Director Kelvin Chitumbo has emphasized that this partnership is built on shared goals, mutual dedication, and a vision for healthier, resilient communities and schools. 

He says the collaboration will focus on several key initiatives, including, Establishing and strengthening School WASH Clubs to nurture a new generation of leaders who understand the importance of sustainable water use and sanitation.

Mr. Chitumbo says the collaboration will also focus on Collaborating on initiatives like the Battle of the Brains School Competition, World Water Day, World Toilet Day, and Global Handwashing Day to raise awareness on critical WASH issues.

He says there is also a need to Supporting crucial water quality interventions in selected schools and communities to ensure safe, clean water access and Documenting lessons learned and best practices in WASH to shape policy and guide future projects.

"This partnership supports NWASCO's Water Conservation Plan under the Drought Response Plan, aiming to promote water conservation and effective resource management nationwide," he said. 

He says with BORDA Zambia's expertise, NWASCO will implement strategies to equip communities with the knowledge and tools to manage resources responsibly, especially during droughts.

"The initial schools participating in this MoU include previous Battle of the Brains Competition participants and schools under BORDA Zambia's Wash'n'Soul Project Phase Two. These schools will serve as beacons of progress, setting a strong example for others across the nation," he said.

Mr. Chitumbo has expressed gratitude to BORDA Zambia for their dedication, stressing that this partnership represents their shared vision to enhance the health, dignity, and quality of life of communities, especially for the youth. 

"Together, we can foster a culture of responsibility, awareness, and action around water, sanitation, and hygiene that will endure for generations to come," Mr. Chitumbo said

According to Amanda Mallaghan, Country Director of BORDA Zambia, this partnership is crucial for protecting public health and giving young people the secure environments they need to thrive.

Their collaborative efforts will focus on establishing and strengthening School WASH Clubs, promoting awareness and education on critical WASH issues, and supporting water quality interventions in selected schools and communities.

They will also document lessons learned and best practices in WASH to inform policy and guide future projects.

BORDA Zambia has already made significant strides in improving sanitation services in Zambia, having worked with partners like GIZ Zambia Water and Energy Cluster, Luapula Water and Sanitation Company, and Zambia Environmental Management Agency.