Mazabuka, Zambia – Stakeholders have noted with pride efforts aimed at advancing integrated water catchment management in Zambia through the AWARE 2.0 Project.
Representing GIZ AWARE 2.0 Project, Janis Hanz applauded the collaborative efforts of stakeholders, stressing the importance of sustainable and integrated water management alongside cross-sector engagement.
Mr Hanz further highlighted that successful catchment management requires time and efficiency, expressing hope that shared experiences within the project would inspire similar approaches elsewhere.
This came to light when members of the Zambia NGO WASH Forum participated in a week-long Governance in the Water and Food Nexus: Field Visit to AWARE 2.0 Project sites in Mazabuka and Monze, where key stakeholders convened to assess progress and share insights.
Delivering remarks on behalf of Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation Southern Province Senior Water Engineer Design – Engineer Gibson Chingwalala, Alice Namukonda emphasised the crucial role of water governance in tackling environmental challenges such as deforestation, land degradation, and climate change.
Engineer Chingwalala urged stakeholders to safeguard ecosystems and invest in infrastructure to ensure sustainable development.
Meanwhile, Parliamentary Caucus on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (PC-WASH) Member Engineer Christopher Kang’ombe outlined key changes in the budgeting process, advocating for rigorous sector budget analysis and increased local financing opportunities for water initiatives.
Water Voices United (WVU) Project Manager, Maria Carreiro, underscored the vital role of civil society organisations and international NGOs in advocating for water and sanitation rights.
She emphasised the importance of evaluating governance in real-life settings to ensure sustainable development.
And Zambia NGO WASH Forum Coordinator, Bubala Muyovwe-Mumba, in a speech delivered on her behalf by the Forum’s Advocacy Officer, Nonde Lwatula, reiterated the WVU project’s commitment to integrating water with energy and agri-food systems while addressing climate change and gender equality.
“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 strengthening the role of CSOs in WASH governance, the project supports the Zambian Government’s efforts towards the progressive realisation of the Human Right to Water and Sanitation. Together, we are not just aiming for change; we are ensuring a sustainable and equitable future where access to clean water and safe sanitation becomes a reality for all,” she stated.
This is contained in a statement issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum Communications Officer, Bangwe Naviley.