Eastern Province Permanent Secretary, Paul Thole, has disclosed that the province constructed a total of 367 water facilities between 2022 and 2024.
He says this has significantly improved access to clean and safe water among communities in the region.
Speaking at the World Water Day celebrations over the weekend, held under the theme “Water and Gender – Where Water Flows, Equality Grows,” Mr Thole highlighted that the province saw a steady increase in water infrastructure during the same period.
He said this includes the construction of water reticulation systems, mechanization of boreholes, and the building and rehabilitation of dams and water-borne sanitation facilities.
The Permanent Secretary said the expansion of water infrastructure aligns with the Presidential directive to ensure access to safe, clean, and adequate water, addressing the growing demand due to population growth and changing environmental conditions.
“So far, 208 boreholes have been constructed and mechanized, 117 water pipe systems for both agricultural and human consumption have been constructed. Additionally, six dams have been rehabilitated and constructed to support both agriculture and human consumption, while 36 water-borne sanitation facilities have been developed across the 15 districts of the province, he said.
Mr Thole emphasised the need for collaboration with cooperating partners to maintain the progress made, adding that the government has ensured the implementation of necessary regulatory frameworks to ensure proper water supply and management.
Meanwhile, Eastern Water and Sanitation Company (EWSC) Managing Director Aaron Mulinda, echoed the importance of gender inclusivity in water access.
Speaking through EWSC Director of Engineering, Musa Banda, Mr Mulinda stressed that achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Number 6 requires a focused effort on gender-balanced policies, particularly for marginalized groups.
“Access to clean and adequate water is a fundamental human right that benefits everyone—women, men, girls, and boys alike,” he said.
Speaking at the same event, Mphangwe Ward Councillor Elidah Nyirenda commended the government and its partners for initiatives that prioritize access to clean water, particularly for women and girls.
Ms Nyirenda shared that her ward has witnessed significant development through the enhanced Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which has resulted in the drilling of additional boreholes and the construction of water reticulation systems.
She added that these efforts by the government and its partners are instrumental in improving the living standards of the community.
