Nalumango says climate resilience, inclusive infrastructure key to achieving universal access to clean water, sanitation

Vice President Mutale Nalumango has emphasized the need to embrace emerging technologies, scientific research and mobilisation of resources for integrated infrastructure and skills development in Zambia’s water sector.

Nalumango highlighted that though Zambia had made commendable progress in expanding water and sanitation access much remained to be done.

Speaking during the opening of the 13th Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition (ZAWAFE) 2025 held at Mulungushi International Conference Centre, Kenneth Kaunda Wing in Lusaka on Tuesday, Nalumango called for the building of systems resilient to climate change and inclusive of all.

The Vice President said this in a speech read on her behalf at the water forum held under the theme: “Integrating Solutions for Sustainable Development: Exploring the Water-Energy-Food and Ecological Nexus,” by Water Development and Sanitation Minister, Collin Nzovu.

According to the 2020 Joint Monitoring Programme Report, national access to safe drinking water stands at 65 per cent with Urban areas standing at 87 percent and Rural areas at 48 percent.

Basic sanitation coverage is at 32 percent with Urban areas standing at 41 percent and Rural areas at 25 percent.

“These figures highlight persistent inequalities that must be urgently addressed if we are to realise our vision of inclusive development,” Nalumango said.

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She called on stakeholders to collaborate and strengthen cross-sector partnerships and community engagement.

Nalumango said Zambia, like many nations, faces growing challenges such as unpredictable rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and rising demand due to urbanisation and industrialisation.

“These pressures threaten our progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6—universal access to clean water and sanitation by 2030,” she said.

Nalumango called on all stakeholders to rally behind a shared vision of a Zambia where every citizen enjoyed access to clean water, sustainable energy, and nutritious food, supported by healthy ecosystems.

Earlier, the NGO WASH Forum Coordinator, Bubala Mumba, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to working collaboratively towards achieving integrated solutions for sustainable development.

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