Minister Nzovu orders new water utility boards to cut losses, enhance efficiency

Minister of Water Development and Sanitation Collins Nzovu has directed the new Boards of Directors for Southern, Luapula and Western Water Supply and Sanitation Companies to aggressively reduce Non-Revenue Water, strengthen financial sustainability and pursue Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to attract additional investment and technical expertise.

Nzovu, who unveiled the Boards at his office in Lusaka on Tuesday, said the appointments formed part of government efforts to strengthen governance and improve performance in the water and sanitation sector.

He also instructed the Boards to prioritise the completion of ongoing infrastructure projects.

“The appointments signal a renewed focus on corporate governance, accountability, and strategic performance, aimed at accelerating progress towards universal access to safe water and adequate sanitation,” he said.

The Minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to the sector, citing increased budgetary support to commercial utilities and measures such as the zero-rating of piped water for VAT purposes to ease operational costs.

He said the Boards must provide strategic leadership that would determine the future performance and sustainability of their companies.

“This responsibility demands unwavering adherence to the highest standards of good governance, transparency, and accountability. We can no longer tolerate operational inefficiencies or the mismanagement of public resources,” he said.

Nzovu added that Zambians expected efficient and reliable service delivery, noting that the training provided for Board members was designed to equip them with the skills needed to discharge their duties effectively.

Acting Permanent Secretary, Oswell Katoka, also stressed the need for strong leadership, transparency and accountability.

He said the Boards were expected to focus on strategic oversight rather than daily operations and ensure better governance results in improved service delivery.

The Southern Water and Sanitation Company Board will be chaired by Shatis Vlahakis, while Moses Silanda will head the Luapula Water Supply and Sanitation Company Board.

Mutukwa Hannah Namasiku has been appointed Board Chairperson for the Western Water Supply and Sanitation Company.

The rest of the Board members include representatives from engineering, legal, financial and community sectors across the three utilities.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.