Minister of Water Development and Sanitation Collins Nzovu says the attainment of Open Defecation Free (ODF) status in Nachisungu area in Isoka demonstrates real progress in improving public health and restoring dignity in rural communities.
Mr Nzovu has reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring that every household has access to safe and reliable sanitation facilities.
Speaking during the ODF celebration held in Nachisungu in Isoka District, Mr Nzovu said the milestone shows the impact of coordinated community action and collaboration with partners.
“This achievement reflects more than just building toilets. It signifies improved health, greater dignity and real progress for our communities,” he noted.
Mr Nzovu added that open defecation fuels diseases such as cholera, dysentery and typhoid, noting that the 2025 theme ‘Sanitation in a Changing World’ reminds the nation that sanitation remains essential regardless of changing conditions.
And World Vision Representative Masautso Nqumayo said sustainable development cannot be achieved without access to clean water and proper sanitation.
“Sustainable well-being is impossible without equitable access to clean water, dignified sanitation and appropriate hygiene practices. That is why we are proud of the achievements we are celebrating today,” he highlighted.
He noted that World Vision has supported communities through the construction of 5,526 basic latrines, drilling 35 boreholes, equipping 22 hand pumps and installing 13 mechanised mini water systems.
He added that World Vision has also constructed six ablution blocks for schools and health facilities, with plans to drill 28 more boreholes in 2026.
And speaking on behalf of Chief Kafwimbi, Chimwenje Mukwasa described the ODF achievement as a shared victory for the district.
“There is nothing more inspiring than communities coming together to improve sanitation. Isoka is ODF today because government, World Vision and our village members worked tirelessly to ensure every household built a toilet,” he said.
Mr Mukwasa further called for continued collaboration between the community, the government and all stakeholders.
Meanwhile, Blessing Chabinga, a beneficiary thanked World Vision and government for various programmes including those that have improved children’s welfare in Isoka District.
“The programmes on water, sanitation and hygiene, financial literacy, child protection and GBV have helped us continue with our education. We also appreciate government for the free education policy,” she said.
The ODF declaration covers five wards in Isoka District namely, Kantenshya, Kalungu, Sansamwenje, Kapililonga and Chinyonga.
