CAUCUS ON WASH A BECON OF HOPE FOR ZAMBIAS WATER AND SANITATION SECTOR, SAYS HON MOYO

The Second Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Honourable Moses F. Moyo, MP, said the Parliamentary Caucus on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene is a beacon of hope for Zambia's Water and Sanitation Sector.

He said the growing global challenges posed by water scarcity and inadequate sanitation systems, have become pressing issues for Zambians and as a result, the National Assembly remains committed to addressing these challenges to ensure better access to water and sanitation.

Speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Zambia NGO WASH Forum aimed at advancing water, sanitation and hygiene in Zambia on Thursday 7th November, 2024 at Parliament Buildings, Hon. Moyo said the effects of severe water shortage has threatened public health, economic development, environmental sustainability and social stability over the past few years.

Honourable Moyo urged Members of Parliament to view the MoU as a collective responsibility, crucial for making meaningful progress in the WASH sector. He further called on leaders in the sector to unite, share knowledge and advocate for policy changes that will benefit the citizens they serve.

Meanwhile Itezhi-Tezhi Member of Parliament (MP) who is also PC-WASH Chairperson, Hon. Twaambo Mutinta said the caucus’ vision is to empower Members of Parliament to advocate for WASH improvements in their constituencies. He noted that Zambian Parliamentarians have joined other Parliaments across the world in the development of systems that prioritize water, sanitation, and hygiene.

 “For us in the Parliamentary Caucus on WASH, access to clean water, effective sanitation, and hygiene practices is not just a developmental goal; it is a matter of dignity, health, and human rights. The importance of our commitment cannot be overstated, as access to water and sanitation is directly linked to the well-being of every individual we represent,” he said.

And, Board Chairperson of the Zambia NGO WASH Forum, Mr. Marlon Phiri, said the MoU is a vital step by the National Assembly and the NGO WASH forum towards strengthening the efforts in advocating for water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) across Zambia.

Netherlands Development Organization (SNV) Zambia’s Country Director, Ms. Lucy Fulgence applauded the dedication of all stakeholders in making the event and the MoU signing a reality. She said the initiative was a critical step towards improving the lives of Zambians through clean water and sanitation access.

Speaking earlier, Deputy Clerk (Procedure) Mr. Stephen Kawimbe said that the Parliamentary Caucus would create a space for MPs to engage in dialogue and advance WASH policy. He thanked international supporters, including the European Union, USAID, and the African Development Bank, for their contributions to WASH initiatives in Zambia.

 

 

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