Commercial Utilities Intensify Cholera Mitigation Efforts Across Zambia
Zambia’s Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation (MWDS) has reaffirmed its commitment to combating the ongoing Cholera outbreak by strengthening collaboration with other government ministries and stakeholders.
The ministry is ramping up efforts to provide safe water and sanitation in vulnerable communities, particularly during the heightened risk period associated with the rainy season.
In areas such as Lusaka’s peri-urban communities, including Kanyama, George, Bauleni, Kabanana, and Chainda, Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company is distributing water through bowsers, ensuring access to safe water.
In addition, the utility is partnering with the Lusaka City Council to enhance solid waste management, particularly in hotspots like Chibolya and Kanyama, addressing key risks linked to poor waste disposal practices.
Chambeshi Water Supply and Sanitation Company has deployed a water bowser to Gabon Township in Nakonde to assist vulnerable households.
Meanwhile, Southern Water Supply and Sanitation Company has positioned a standby 10,000-liter water bowser and vacuum tanker to swiftly respond to water and sanitation needs, while extending services to shallow wells in Nakonde and distributing water purification tablets and domestic chlorine to residents.
Eastern Water Supply and Sanitation Company is also playing a crucial role by drilling emergency boreholes in Katete and upgrading water systems in Petauke and Chipata to improve supply.
The company is procuring critical water treatment chemicals like Chlorine and aluminium sulphate to ensure uninterrupted water treatment.
Nationwide, Commercial Utilities are employing superchlorination techniques to enhance water quality, ensuring that water surpasses safe chlorine levels to prevent contamination. Heightened water quality surveillance has been implemented to detect and address potential risks promptly.
In his statement, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu, MP, Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, urged all citizens to utilize safe water services provided by Commercial Utilities and adopt hygiene practices crucial for Cholera prevention.
The ministry expressed gratitude to its partners and the public for their ongoing support in this critical battle against Cholera.
“These combined efforts from our water utilities and stakeholders reflect our commitment to safeguarding public health. We urge all citizens to continue adhering to safe water and hygiene practices as we work together to overcome these challenges,” said Hon. Nzovu.