Almost half of Zambia’s population lacks access to clean water – Zamtel

ZAMTEL says almost half of Zambia’s population lacks access to safe, clean water despite the nation being endowed with abundant natural water resources.

Speaking during the handover of the water for life boreholes sunk in 2014 across Zambia in partnership with Huawei, Zamtel Chief Executive officer John Mwanakatwe says the lack of access to clean water is an unfortunate situation leading to medical problems that adversely affect the quality of life for the individuals, families and communities.

Dr Mwanakatwe says this is the key challenge that Zamtel decided to tackle as a major corporate social responsibility programme that is aimed at augmenting government’s effort to reverse the trend of a lack of access to clean and safe drinking water.

Dr. Mwanakatwe states that for this year alone, they have committed a total of K1. 8 million to fund the sinking of 52 boreholes.

And Huawei has donated US$100,000 towards the sinking of boreholes to be spread over the next three years.
Huawei Deputy Managing Director Qin Yuahao says Huawei is committed to helping Zambia achieve a bright future adding that it will work hard with its partners to ensure that together they grow with Zambia.
And Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Yang Youmig says the Chinese government continues to encourage companies with credibility and capability like Huawei to dedicate themselves and commit more investment to Zambia so as to benefit Zambia and its people.