WaterAid Zambia hands over WASH infrastructure in Mazabuka

WaterAid Zambia has handed over water network systems, a modern ablution block and a waste management system valued at over 6.5 million Kwacha to Nakambala Clinic and Ndeke Primary and Secondary Schools in Mazabuka District. Commissioning the infrastructure, Southern Province…

WaterAid Zambia has handed over water network systems, a modern ablution block and a waste management system valued at over 6.5 million Kwacha to Nakambala Clinic and Ndeke Primary and Secondary Schools in Mazabuka District.

Commissioning the infrastructure, Southern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Yolanta Malunga reaffirmed government’s commitment to working with WaterAid Zambia and other cooperating partners to improve water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure in public institutions.

Ms Malunga called on WaterAid Zambia and other cooperating partners to continue working with government to address WASH challenges across the province, particularly in health facilities, schools and communities where the need remains significant.

“We must continue working towards a healthcare system where no patient is denied a safe and dignified healthcare environment because of inadequate water and sanitation,” she said.

Ms Malunga commended WaterAid Zambia for its strong collaboration with Government in providing improved water, sanitation and hygiene services, saying such partnerships were important in strengthening public service delivery and protecting  communities from waterborne diseases.

And WaterAid Zambia Country Director Yhanko Mataya said the organisation would continue supporting efforts to strengthen resilience against waterborne diseases while promoting dignity, public health and environmental protection.

Ms Mataya, whose speech was read on her behalf by WaterAid Zambia Head of Programmes Bernard Omari, said the infrastructure commissioned included an incinerator, ablution block and reticulated borehole, as well as solar-powered mechanised water systems with a capacity of 20,000 litres.

“The new infrastructure that we are commissioning today includes an incinerator, ablution block and reticulated borehole along with solar-powered mechanised water systems, with a capacity of 20,000 litres,” she said.

Ms Mataya said water had been extended to the healthcare facility, maternity annex, permanent handwashing facilities, water kiosks and Ndeke Primary and Secondary Schools.

She  added that the project, supported by Liquid IV and Trillium Trust, had reached 23,489 people against an original target of 12,000.

Ms Mataya said the achievement represented 195 percent of the planned reach and was part of WaterAid Zambia’s broader 2023-2028 strategy to improve the well-being of vulnerable and marginalised communities through enhanced WASH and health services.

Meanwhile, Southern Water and Sanitation Company Acting Managing Director Warren Habeenzu called for the establishment of a sustainability model to ensure effective management and maintenance of the water system.