By 
Water Development and Sanitation Minister, Collins Nzovu, has underscored the urgent need to strengthen climate adaptation measures to build national resilience against the growing impacts of climate change.
Speaking on his behalf, Permanent Secretary, Romas Kamanga, at a side event during the just-ended National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Expo in Lusaka, Nzovu described the platform as vital for sharing lessons and practical innovations such as climate-resilient toilets and urban water systems.
He noted that water and sanitation had long been sidelined in climate discussions, even though climate change is fundamentally a water crisis. Increasing droughts, floods, and erratic rainfall, he said, continued to damage water sources and sanitation infrastructure, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities.
“Zambia is already experiencing severe water stress during prolonged dry periods, while flash floods are damaging sanitation systems in some areas. These are not future risks but present realities,” he said.
The Minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to making water and sanitation central to its adaptation and development agenda.
The National Adaptation Plan 2023 prioritises sustainable water supply, climate protection services, water management, and nature-based solutions, with a strong focus on vulnerable households, schools, and health facilities.
Other priorities include strengthening water security in drought-prone regions, upgrading rural infrastructure, promoting sustainable sanitation systems, and increasing funding and training for local service providers.
Nzovu further stressed the importance of good governance, equity, and accountability to ensure that women, children, and people with disabilities were not left behind.
He also appealed for accelerated access to climate finance to support Zambia’s adaptation goals, noting that the country’s efforts were aligned with global commitments such as the Paris Agreement, Sustainable Development Goal 6, and the Africa Water Investment Programme.
Meanwhile, Zambia NGO WASH Forum Coordinator, Bubala Muyovwe-Mumba, called for stronger integration of climate action, accountability, and community-led solutions. She highlighted the need for investment in climate-smart water systems, drought-tolerant agriculture, and capacity building for local leadership.
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.
Comments