Zambia NGO WASH Forum Congratulates Newly Elected PC-WASH Members
The Zambia NGO WASH Forum has congratulated the newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) to the Parliamentary Caucus on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (PC-WASH) during its inaugural General Meeting and Election in Lusaka.
Forum National Coordinator, Bubala Muyovwe-Mumba, expressed appreciation for the unamended adoption of the constitution, marking a significant milestone in advancing WASH initiatives nationwide.
“The Caucus is not a formal Committee but has been formed to support the WASH-related legislative priorities of the formal Committees in the National Assembly as an ‘internal’ advocacy group for WASH,” Ms. Muyovwe-Mumba explained.
The Committee will be headed by Twaambo Mutinta as Chairperson, Melesiana Phiri as Vice Chairperson, Walusa Mulaliki as Secretary, and Chonde Gystave Saka as Vice Secretary. Other members include Binwell Mpundu as Treasurer, Luhamba Mwene as Vice Treasurer, and Marjorie Nakaponda, Christopher Kang’ombe, and Imanga Wamunyima as Committee Members.
Ms. Muyovwe-Mumba emphasized that the newly elected Executive Members of the PC-WASH are expected to play a crucial role in shaping Zambia’s WASH landscape. “Their dedication and leadership will be vital in addressing key challenges and ensuring equitable access to WASH services for all Zambians,” she said.
She highlighted the importance of the PC-WASH as a vital platform for formulating policies, advocating for necessary legislative changes, and promoting WASH-related initiatives. By collaborating with relevant stakeholders, the committee is positioned to drive evidence-based decision-making and foster a conducive environment for WASH development.
“As overseers of WASH matters, the Caucus ensures the transparent, accountable, and efficient utilization of financial resources toward sustainable WASH projects,” she stated. “It bridges the gap between policymakers and communities, promoting community-driven solutions, raising awareness, and encouraging active participation in WASH programs.”
Ms. Muyovwe-Mumba urged the Caucus to prioritize reaching vulnerable populations, including women, children, and marginalized communities, ensuring equitable access to WASH services regardless of geographical location or socio-economic status. She also encouraged exploring innovative, climate-resilient approaches in the face of water availability challenges posed by climate change.
“Strengthening partnerships through collaboration with development partners, NGOs, and private sector entities is essential for enhancing WASH outcomes,” she added. “The commitment of the Zambia NGO WASH Forum to supporting the PC-WASH and congratulating the elected members is reiterated, emphasizing the collective effort to create a healthier, more sustainable Zambia where every citizen enjoys the basic human right to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene.”
Ms. Muyovwe-Mumba concluded by highlighting the necessity for the committee to explore rainwater harvesting, drought-resistant technologies, and sustainable water management practices as integral parts of WASH programs to mitigate the effects of climate change on water availability.
