Vice President Mutale Nalumango has expressed satisfaction with the efforts of the Zambia NGO WASH Forum in advocating for improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) across the country.
Mrs Nalumango highlighted the vital role non-governmental organisations play in complementing government efforts in various sectors.
She was speaking during her tour of the Forum’s exhibition stand at the ongoing PANAFCON 3 at Mulungushi International Conference in in Lusaka, hosted by Zambia.
The ongoing PANAFCON 3 conference has provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in discussions on sustainable development, with emphasis on strengthening Africa’s WASH agenda for the future.
Meanwhile, Zambia NGO WASH Forum Coordinator Bubala Muyovwe-Mumba reiterated the organisation’s commitment to advancing WASH initiatives.
Ms Mumba noted that the Forum is comprised of 40 civil society organisations working collaboratively to drive positive change in the sector.
She expressed gratitude for the visibility the sector has received through engagements with the government, particularly following pronouncements by the Head of State that have helped bring much-needed attention to critical WASH issues.
She, however, emphasised that despite the progress made, more resources are required to address the sector’s pressing challenges.
Ms Mumba further outlined the Forum’s key areas of focus, including governance, climate change resilience, and leveraging data and technology to tackle water and sanitation challenges.
She stressed the need for inclusive citizen participation and stronger legislation to enable effective policy implementation.
Ms Mumba also pointed to the environmental risks posed by mining activities, advocating for balanced regulations that protect water resources while supporting economic growth and job creation.
Earlier, Ms Mumba thanked the European Union for sponsoring it’s participation in the event.
The Water Voices United is a transformative four-year project, co-funded by the European Union and Danish People’s Aid and spearheaded by SNV in partnership with the NGO WASH Forum. This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities and synergies among WASH Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Zambia. By fostering the CSOs role in WASH governance, the project supports the Zambian Government’s efforts towards the progressive realization of the Human Right to Water and Sanitation. Together, we are not just aiming for change; we’re ensuring a sustainable and equitable future where access to clean water and safe sanitation becomes a reality for all.
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