Gov’t Commends BORDA Zambia for Strengthening WASH in Schools
The Government has applauded Bremen Overseas Research and Development Association (BORDA) Zambia for its ongoing contributions to improving Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) infrastructure in schools, calling it a key step in enhancing learning environments and student health.
Speaking during a recent WASH-focused event hosted by BORDA Zambia, Mr. Daka, a government representative, acknowledged the impactful work carried out in over 20 schools, which includes water reticulation systems, tank installations, boreholes, and the construction of new ablution blocks.
He highlighted the successful renovation of previously closed sanitation facilities, which has notably improved hygiene conditions for learners.
Mr. Daka further commended BORDA Zambia’s WASH dissemination programmes, which actively reach teachers, school managers, and pupils through innovative platforms such as competitions and debate forums. These initiatives have been praised for engaging students directly and fostering positive behavioural change through education.
“I particularly applaud learners from special schools whose artistic talents have reflected real sanitation challenges and solutions,” he stated. “Instilling hygiene habits from a young age is crucial to building lifelong health-conscious behaviours.”
The event, which brought together 25 schools, allowed students to showcase WASH-themed artistic works including poetry, drama, and visual art, reinforcing the value of creative expression in sanitation advocacy.
On his part, BORDA Zambia Projects Manager Eddy Chikuta reiterated the pressing need for sustainable WASH solutions in schools, noting that despite long-standing discussions, challenges persist—especially in rural areas.
Chikuta cited that following the 2021 Free Education Policy, school enrollment surged to two million learners by 2024, placing immense pressure on existing infrastructure. He criticized the ongoing construction of classroom blocks without corresponding sanitation facilities and warned that WASH sector funding has declined over the past five years, despite repeated outbreaks of diseases like cholera.
“Emergency responses are not enough—we must invest in preventative measures,” Chikuta stressed. He urged stakeholders to implement sustainable monitoring systems to ensure WASH infrastructure endures and delivers long-term value.
Chikuta also highlighted BORDA’s innovative Universal Language for Behaviour Change model, which uses football, dance, and art to communicate WASH messages effectively. This model encourages students to express sanitation concerns creatively and propose community-based solutions.
The event was hosted in partnership with the Zambia NGO WASH Forum, and a statement was issued by its Communications Officer, Bangwe Naviley Chisenga, emphasizing BORDA Zambia’s leadership and the critical need for ongoing collaboration in the WASH sector.
