WATER BLUES TACKLED IN MANYAMA

By JACKSON MAPAPAYI THE Finnish government working with Lumwana Mining Company (LMC) has embarked on a project to improve access to clean and safe drinking water in Manyama area in Kalumbila.

Speaking during the launch of the Manyama Water Trust in the area, Lumwana Mine Company country executive director Nathan Chishimba, thanked Fin0l9a7n6d rt0in9g68th6e50pe4o5p0le of Manyama through enhanced access to potable water.

Mr Chishimba said in the last two years, the mining company had piloted one water kiosk at Manyama market which is now running on commercial terms.

“This premise has provided a firm foundation to consider replication of the water enterprise models in the community,” he said.

Mr Chishimba said the commercial water kiosks model is an adaptation to ensure water challenges are overcomed and a starting point for the wider framework of improving wa- ter and sanitation in Manyama through the D-washe and the North Western Water and Sewerage policy framework.

He called for collaboration with government at both local and central government level to ensure the successful implementation of the project.

Kalumbila District Commissioner Robinson Kalota said it was important to increase levels of access to clean and safe drinking water and sanitation services for people in rural and urban areas.

He said the seventh national development plan launched by President Edgar Lungu early this year, puts emphasis on access to water and sanitation services.

Mr Kalota commended LMC for the positive strides it has continued to make towards improving the welfare of people within its catchment area.

Manyama Mema Trust board chairperson Humphrey Chisenena, said the project will help in addressing the challenges of access to clean and safe drinking water in Manyama area. He said the population had increased hence the need to have more water points.