Zambia, Finland Collaborate to Enhance Water Security and Regional Leadership
Zambia and Finland have reaffirmed their strong and growing partnership in the water sector, with a focus on sustainable water resources management and international water diplomacy.
The commitment was highlighted during a courtesy call in Lusaka by Finland’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Mr Sakari Puisto, on Zambia’s Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu, MP. Hon. Nzovu described the visit as a reflection of the enduring bilateral relations between the two countries.
He expressed gratitude for Finland’s continued support to Zambia and Africa, including a €20,000 contribution towards the 3rd Pan-African Implementation and Partnership Conference on Water (PANAFCON-3) in 2025.
Speaking on Zambia and Finland’s joint role on the global stage, Hon. Nzovu said the two countries are preparing to serve as Co-Chairs of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference.
This co-chairmanship, including leadership of the Interactive Dialogue on Water for Cooperation, provides a platform to advance international water action, promote cooperation in shared watercourses, and strengthen water diplomacy for peace and sustainable development.
Hon. Nzovu also acknowledged Finland’s long-standing support for capacity building in the water sector through initiatives such as WaterNet, which enhance Integrated Water Resources Management, water governance, and research development across Southern and Eastern Africa.
A significant milestone in the partnership is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Zambia’s Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation and the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK). The agreement provides a framework for collaboration in hydrogeology, groundwater modelling, aquifer recharge management, transboundary aquifers, and sustainable urban groundwater supply.
The MoU is expected to strengthen water resource mapping, support commercial water utilities, provide critical data for policymaking, and promote equitable management of shared water resources.
Mr Puisto reaffirmed Finland’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Zambia, praising the country’s leadership regionally and internationally, including through the Zambezi Watercourse Commission and the African Ministers’ Council on Water.
He also highlighted opportunities for expanded collaboration, particularly through Finnish research institutions, companies, and water operators. Notably, a proposed Global Water Operators Partnership with Mulonga Water Supply and Sanitation Company has advanced to the second round of European Union funding consideration.
Both Ministers emphasised their shared vision of translating political commitment and technical cooperation into practical, results-oriented actions that will enhance water security, strengthen institutions, and improve access to safe and reliable water for Zambians and communities across the region.
