World Bank Funds $33 Million Programme to Improve Water and Sanitation Access in Zambia
The Minister of Water Supply and Sanitation, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu, MP, has officially launched the Zambia Water Supply and Sanitation Services in Growth Centres Programme for Results (PforR), a major initiative aimed at expanding access to clean water and improved sanitation across the country.
Speaking at the launch, Eng. Nzovu described the programme as a significant milestone in Zambia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen public service delivery and improve living standards.
The programme is supported by the World Bank through a US$33 million financing package under the International Development Association (IDA). Of this amount, US$27 million will be directed towards results-based interventions, while US$6 million has been allocated to capacity building and technical assistance.
The Minister said the funding demonstrates strong international confidence in Zambia’s reform agenda and commitment to improving essential services.
He noted that access to safe water and sanitation remains a major challenge, with approximately 62 per cent of the population currently accessing basic water supply and only 37 per cent having access to adequate sanitation services.
He warned that these gaps continue to expose communities to waterborne diseases and undermine socio-economic development, particularly affecting women and children.
The programme is expected to benefit over 99,000 people directly in areas served by water utilities in Kafubu, Luapula, North-Western, and Western Provinces, with an indirect impact reaching about 1.7 million citizens nationwide.
Eng. Nzovu further stated that Government has established dedicated coordination and implementation units to ensure efficiency, accountability, and measurable results.
He emphasised that the success of the programme will depend on strong collaboration between Government institutions, local authorities, communities, and private sector partners. Aligned with Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development Goal 6, the initiative is expected to accelerate progress towards universal access to clean water and sanitation in Zambia.
