Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Local Government and Housing Minister Steve Kampyongo
Government has identified partnership among stakeholders as key in dealing with the challenges in the water and sanitation sector.
Local Government and Housing Minister Steve Kampyongo says government remains dedicated to providing a conducive environment for stakeholders to effectively implement activities aimed at improving the quality of life of the Zambian people.
Speaking during the launch of the National Urban Sanitation Strategy and Water Supply and Sanitation Capacity Development Strategy today, Mr. Kampyongo says the majority people in peri-urban areas still do not have access to improved sanitation facilities leading to out breaks of diseases.
He says there is need to accelerate efforts towards increasing sanitation coverage which has lagged behind for too long.
Mr. Kampyongo says he is aware that not all staff in the sector has adequate capacities to implement and manage water supply and sanitation facilities, noting that lack of skills in planning, budgeting monitoring and contract management constrain service delivery and result into wasteful utilization of resources.
And Germany Embassy Deputy Head cooperation Christian Zoll says proper sanitation facilities reduce the risks of cholera and other diarrheal diseases because majority of illnesses around the world are caused by fecal matter.
Mr. Zoll says it is estimated that sanitation could reduce child death due to diarrheal hence the urgent need to address the matter.
He says Germany will continue supporting the Zambian government in improving water sanitation, but expects the willingness and necessary commitment from the Zambian Government to further develop the water and sanitation for the well being of the Zambian people.