Lusaka Province Minister, Sheal Mulyata says Government is set to improve water and sanitation in all parts of the country.
Ms Mulyata disclosed that the government is identifying sites for the construction of new dams, upgrading of water hand pumps to piped water schemes in all rural areas.
The Minister said this during the commemoration of the World Water Day in Rufunsa District in Lusaka which was held under the theme “Accelerating Change”.
“This year’s theme resonates well with the collaboration among stakeholders in the private and public sectors “ she said.
Ms Mulyata added that the collaboration with stakeholders will enhance the implementation of water and sanitation projects in the country.
The Minister emphasised the need to enhance resilience towards climate change that will increase access to safe water.
She has called upon the general public to refrain from behavioral activities that have a negative impact on the water resources such as cultivating near the river and cutting down trees.
Ms Mulyata explained that the promotion of innovative solutions and technology is a reliable solution to the development and management of water resources.
She added that the construction of storage systems such as dams , rainwater harvesting to reduce water scarcity as well as management technologies such as water metering and water saving devices among others can reduce water wastage
The Minister assured the people of Lukwipa that government is aware of the challenges faced in the supply of water and sanitation in the area.
“Government is reviewing the water policy in order to address the emerging issues in the water sector,” she said .
She said these water policies are aimed at promoting sustainable management of water and sanitation resources.
Ms Mulyata disclosed that government will construct waterborne sanitation facilities, and upgrade hand pumps to piped water schemes.
She said these projects will improve water supply and sanitation in the districts.
The Minister added that government is identifying sites for the construction of new dams for rain harvesting as well as improving the already existing water resources.
Ms Mulyata has also called on stakeholders to continue supporting governments efforts in improving livelihood in Zambia.
Speaking at the same event , Rufunsa Town Council Chairperson, Kennedy Mailoni expressed concern with the inadequate water supply in the village.
Mr Mailoni added that the coverage of water supply in Rufunsa District currently stands at 67 percent.
He said this situation has left some people to opt for other unsafe alternatives such as shallow wells and streams.
Mr Mailoni has appealed to government to improve access to clean and safe water to 100 percent coverage in both rural and urban areas.
The council chairperson disclosed that 35 boreholes were drilled through Constituency Development Funds(CDF) and support from well wishers .
He has called upon the public to take responsibility for looking after the water facility.
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