Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, says government is committed to uplifting standard of living for residents of Petauke District of Eastern Province who are facing challenges with accessing water for their farming activities.
The media reports that Mr Nzovu was speaking in Petauke at the handover of the Siximalima Dam constructed by the Zambia National Service.
Mr Nzovu has, however, appealed to the community not to vandalise the newly constructed dam but to use it for the advancement of their farming activities that will uplift their living standards.
The Minister further advised the Dam Management Committee to look after the facility well.
“This dam should be used to multiply your animals and also to expand your farming activities,” Mr Nsovu said.
And Zambia National Service Commander, Lieutenant General, Maliti Solochi has called for more collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation and the National Service in fostering developmental activities in rural areas.
Lt Gen Maliti said ZNS constructed the dam, with a view of helping people, which he said must be replicated in most parts of the country.
He said ZNS will continue to work with the ministry to ensure that more dams are constructed as per Presidential directive.
“When I came here earlier this year, we heard the complaints of the community over how they struggled to find water sources and prompted us to build a dam for them and l am glad that today we are handing it over to the community, ” the ZNS commander said.
Samuel Mwanza, who represented chief Kalindawalo at the handover ceremony, has appreciated the gesture urging that those who are saying the President is not delivering on his promises should see for themselves.
Mr Mwanza has further assured the government that the dams will be safeguarded.
“We are grateful for this gesture,” Mr Mwanza said.
