Wateraid Emphasizes Importance of Resource Mobilization Strategy For Achieving Zambia’s SDG
WaterAid Zambia has emphasized the importance of the Resource Mobilization Strategy for achieving Zambia’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) and Vision 2030 targets.
Organization Country Director Yankho Mataya highlighted that resources are crucial for nationalizing efforts and addressing financing gaps in the water sector, which have persisted for years.
Ms. Mataya said the ongoing drought and climate change has underscored the need for increased investments, expressing hope that the strategy will lead to better and more inclusive services over the 2020-2030 strategic period.
She was speaking when Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, officially launched the National Water Policy of 2024, the Resource Mobilization Strategy and Implementation Roadmap, the Zambia Water Investment Program, and the National Adaptation Plan at an event attended by various stakeholders including Zambia NGO WASH Forum.
And Engineer Nzovu assured that Government is committed to improving the water sector, including tariff adjustments, better operations, and enhanced sanitation facilities, as it is not immune to sentiments from stakeholders regarding issues such as water tariffs.
He stressed the need for alignment and resolution of long-standing issues in the water sector, calling for necessary reforms and legal changes to ensure successful project implementation.
Engineer Nzovu emphasized that the government is fully aligned with the objectives of the water sector and urged stakeholders to take advantage of this alignment to achieve their goal
He reiterated the importance of coordination among stakeholders to resolve issues and emphasized that some matters must quickly be escalated to the Cabinet and the Head of State.
At the same event, African Development Bank (AfDB) representative, Raubil Durowoji, has commended the Zambian government and its partners for their efforts in ensuring access to safe water, especially amidst the severe drought affecting Southern Africa.
Mr. Durowoji applauded the leadership of the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation for the development and successful launch of three key documents, including the National Water Policy.
He emphasized that these documents aim to align national policies with international frameworks, raise the profile of the water sector, and address cross-cutting issues like gender.
Mr. Durowoji urged the Ministry to establish effective mechanisms for monitoring and tracking progress, assuring them of ADB’s full support and confidence in their leadership.
This is according to a statement issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum Communications Officer, Bangwe Naviley.
