… Wahid says the New Infrastructure Provides Clean Water to Over 2,300 Residents, Enhancing Sanitation and Health
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (16-07-2024) – In a significant infrastructure development, the United States government today inaugurated a solar-powered water system for Bwembya village in Kasama District, Northern Province. This initiative aims to provide clean water to over 2,300 residents, marking a critical milestone in the village’s quest for improved sanitation and health.
According to a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Zambia to Zambia24, access to safe, clean drinking water was underscored as vital.
U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Linnisa Wahid emphasized the profound impact of such facilities on community health, stating, “Access to safe, clean drinking water, alongside effective sanitation facilities and proper hygiene practices, is crucial for the health and well-being of children and communities.”
The solar-powered system includes three boreholes, a 54,000-liter tank, a piped network, and six water kiosks.
This infrastructure will be managed by the Chambeshi Water Supply and Sanitation Company, ensuring sustainable operation and maintenance.
Honorable Collins Nzovu, Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, received the system on behalf of the Zambian government and praised the collaborative effort.
He underscored the significance of such partnerships in addressing water scarcity, especially during ongoing drought conditions, stating, “This gesture by the U.S. government underscores the strong bilateral ties between our nations.”
The U.S. government, through the USAID Scaling Up Nutrition Technical Assistance Project, has played a crucial role in Zambia’s development efforts.
“Over the past five years, USAID has installed 1,000 boreholes across 13 districts in Central, Copperbelt, Northern, and Luapula provinces, benefiting over 400,000 people with clean and safe water,” noted a USAID spokesperson.
Last month, USAID committed an additional $66.8 million (K2.6 billion) to Zambia to address current drought, enhance food security, and strengthen economic and climate resilience.
While this initiative is a commendable step towards improving water access in Bwembya village, it also underscores the broader challenges Zambia faces in ensuring sustainable water supply.
The involvement of local entities like the Chambeshi Water Supply and Sanitation Company is critical for maintaining these facilities. Long-term success depends on consistent collaboration among international partners, the government, and local communities.
“The U.S. government’s investment in Zambia’s water infrastructure serves as a model of international cooperation, addressing immediate needs while building local capacity for sustainable development,” emphasized a development expert familiar with the project.
“This project not only provides vital support for Bwembya residents but also sets a precedent for future initiatives aimed at enhancing rural Zambia’s quality of life.”