President Hichilema summons ministers over UNZA sanitation crisis

President Hakainde Hichilema on Tuesday called an emergency meeting at State House after the worsening sanitation crisis at the University of Zambia (UNZA) triggered public outrage.

In a rare and decisive move, the President summoned the Ministries of Education, Health, Infrastructure, and Water Development & Sanitation, along with UNZA management, demanding immediate action and a clear plan to restore dignity in public higher institutions.

The President ordered a nationwide audit of sanitation facilities in all public universities and colleges, directing ministries to table quick, practical solutions without delay. He further instructed them to work with the Zambia National Service (ZNS) to fast-track interventions.

According to State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka, the President expressed dissatisfaction with the long-standing neglect of student welfare, warning that sanitation issues must no longer be treated as “side matters.”

“Sanitation is central to health, well-being, and basic human dignity,” President Hichilema said, stressing that no student should be learning in unsafe or unhygienic environments.

During the meeting, the President also told the Ministry of Education and UNZA management to resolve long-running concerns affecting lecturers and academic staff — another issue that has repeatedly surfaced without lasting solutions.

He reiterated that education was one of the country’s greatest investments and equalizers, and urged institutions to meet acceptable standards that reflected national priorities.

The President reaffirmed that his administration would continue listening to citizens and responding decisively where institutions fall short.

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