BY MWAKA MWANSA
Parliamentary Caucus on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (PC-WASH) Chairperson Mutinta Twaambo says parliamentarians are hopeful for improved national budget allocations to the WASH sector, particularly to address shortcomings in schools.
Speaking during the WASH in Schools Sharing Event in Lusaka, Mr. Twaambo said current funding levels are inadequate and urged government to progressively increase investment to meet growing demands and climate-related challenges.
He said access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene is fundamental to learners’ health and education. The event, organised by the NGO WASH Forum, BORDA Zambia and World Vision, is themed Strengthening Systems for Inclusive and Sustainable WASH in Schools.
Mr. Twaambo underscored the importance of discussions on financing, governance, menstrual health, gender inclusion, and climate resilience, saying these issues directly impact learners and teachers.
NGO WASH Forum Board Chairperson Marlon Phiri praised stakeholders for their commitment to advancing inclusive WASH in schools. He said education cannot thrive without proper sanitation facilities and framed WASH as a human rights priority.
Mr. Phiri called for deeper collaboration, highlighting the Water Voices United project as a key effort empowering civil society to support government in improving WASH delivery nationwide.
