WaterAid joins State push to fix failing WASH services

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WaterAid Zambia, the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, and the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at accelerating universal access to sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services across Zambia.

The signing ceremony has been described as “a momentous occasion marking a new chapter in our collective journey toward ensuring every citizen has access to clean and safe water as well as adequate sanitation,” aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 6 and Zambia’s Vision 2030.

Speaking at the event, Water Development Permanent Secretary Romas Kamanga has said that access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene is not just a matter of infrastructure; it is a foundation for public health, economic growth, and human dignity.

He said the MoU formalizes a commitment to collaborate, tackle sector challenges, and implement innovative WASH technologies.

“This tripartite partnership will focus on capacity strengthening, human resource development, and improving institutional efficiency to enhance overall sector performance,” Mr. Kamanga added.

He has stated that the collaboration will be data-driven and evidence-based, with plans to produce an annual WASH statistical bulletin, conduct regular performance reviews, and strengthen monitoring and evaluation frameworks.

Modern tools, including the mWater platform, will be used to ensure strategies are informed by accurate and timely information.

Mr. Kamanga has highlighted that under the MoU, the ministries will provide policy guidance, while WaterAid will offer technical expertise and facilitate staff training.

The partnership will also work to mobilize resources to ensure its sustainability.

“While this signing marks a significant milestone, the real work lies ahead in field implementation, public awareness campaigns, and policy reforms,” he noted. “Let us move forward with renewed determination to ensure clean water flows freely, sanitation becomes standard, and communities across Zambia thrive.”

And speaking at the same event, Local Government Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Funizani Phiri, speaking on behalf of his ministry, said the collaboration reflects a shared vision and provides a roadmap for tangible results. He added that strengthening local governance and empowering councils will ensure rural communities are not left behind.

And WaterAid Zambia Country Director Yankho Mataya said the organization positions itself as a “critical friend” to government, ready to challenge and support efforts to achieve national and global development aspirations.

She said WaterAid will invest in capacity building, training, institutional support, and workforce resilience to ensure sustainable WASH services.

“Our role is clear: to support the government in achieving universal access to sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene across the country,” Ms. Mataya said. “From monitoring and evaluation to data collection tools, we aim to equip teams with the skills and resources needed to drive sustainable change.”

Ends……………….

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