Over 1,000 residents of Mgubudu area in Chipangali District of Eastern Province are set to benefit from the newly commissioned Mgubudu Water Scheme.
The facility has been developed under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of the Trade Kings Group of Companies.
Eastern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Lewis Mwape, who handed over the water scheme, noted that families in the area had for many years relied on shallow wells that often dried up during the dry season.
Dr. Mwape explained that the situation forced women and children to walk long distances in search of water, exposing households to unsafe water sources.
He commended the strong partnership between Trade Kings and Government through the Local Authority, which has resulted in lasting access to clean and safe water.
“Government has been very clear in its development agenda, no Zambian should be left behind in accessing basic services,” he said.
He added that water remains one of the most critical services as it supports health, agriculture, education and overall household wellbeing.
The media reports that Dr. Mwape further praised Trade Kings for aligning with the national vision, stating that the Mgubudu Water Scheme demonstrates how meaningful collaboration between government and the private sector can bring lasting transformation.
“As government, we remain committed to strengthening such partnerships so that development reaches every corner of our province,” he said.
And Chipangali District Commissioner, Harrison Phiri, said the facility will greatly promote health and dignity within the community.
Mr Phiri urged residents to take ownership of the infrastructure.
“This infrastructure is in your hands. Take ownership, safeguard it and use the water responsibly. A project like this will last if it is well managed,” Mr Phiri said.
Chipangali Town Council Secretary, Faustina Manjombi, said the development aligns with national and global commitments on access to clean and safe water.
“This project advances the objectives of the Eighth National Development Plan, which prioritises improved access to water and sanitation as a driver of human development, rural transformation and inclusive growth,” Ms. Manjombi noted.
She emphasised that bringing water closer to households directly contributes to national aspirations.
And Trade Kings Group of Companies Public Relations Manager, Bridget Kambobe, said the project reflects the company’s commitment to addressing community challenges through social responsibility initiatives.
Ms. Kambobe described the dependence on shallow wells as detrimental to the community’s health and expressed hope that the new water scheme would have a positive impact.
Meanwhile, Induna Mundisha, representative of Chief Chanje, commended the partnership between Trade Kings and Government for bringing development to the community.
