Govt Acknowledges Stakeholder Concerns on Water Tariffs – Nzovu
Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, has emphasized that the Zambian government is not immune to stakeholder sentiments regarding water tariffs, acknowledging the strong calls for urgent reforms in the water sector.
Speaking during the launch of three key documents for the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector in Lusaka, Mr. Nzovu stressed the need to abandon the “business as usual” approach, citing high water stress and the significant financial resources needed to address the crisis.
The minister officially unveiled the National Water Policy of 2024, the Resource Mobilization Strategy and Implementation Roadmap, and the Zambia Water Investment Program during the event, which was attended by key stakeholders, including the Zambia NGO WASH Forum.
Mr. Nzovu reiterated the government’s commitment to improving water sector operations and addressing challenges such as tariff adjustments and sanitation upgrades.
He also highlighted the importance of stakeholder coordination, ensuring that long-standing issues in the sector are escalated to the Cabinet and President when necessary.
He assured the public that the new policies align with Zambia’s Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to secure universal access to clean water and sanitation by 2050. The policy also proposes legal and institutional reforms to enhance accountability and efficiency within the sector.
WaterAid Zambia’s Country Director, Yankho Mataya, and African Development Bank (ADB) representative, Raubil Durowoji, praised the launch of these documents, emphasizing their importance in mobilizing resources and addressing Zambia’s water security challenges.
This statement was issued by the Zambia NGO WASH Forum Communications Officer, Bangwe Naviley.
