Mangochi District Council has launched a K28.54 billion water, sanitation and hygiene (Wash) investment plan to supply safe water to all residents of Mangochi.

Speaking on Wednesday at Mangochi Municipal Council Hall, Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation John Bande described the investment plan as instrumental in providing safe water.

He said: “Mangochi is a tourist destination with the potential to contribute towards the socio-economic development of the country.

“However, it is sad to learn that the district continues to experience water challenges. This is why government partnered other organisations to come up with this plan, which will guide in implementing activities to address the water problem.”

Bande cuts the ribbon to commission the project

Bande said the project will involve drilling boreholes, installing solar pumps and tanks, constructing treatment plants and conducting sensitisation campaigns on sanitation in market and other public places.

Mangochi district water development officer Kondwani Andrea said the project was necessitated by a huge demand of water in the district.

“The demand for water and sanitation services is increasing. Therefore, we have launched the plan to respond to the same,” he said.

Mangochi District Council chairperson Ivy Sande commended government for launching the project, saying it will answer the long-awaited prayer for safe water.

“Despite the district having fresh-water lakes and rivers, we still face water challenges,” she said.

Titukulane Project chief of party Jones Chimpukuso, who spoke on behalf of a consortium of six non-governmental organisations supporting the project, said they want to see sustainable management of water resources.

Imran James, a resident, said the initiative will improve access to clean water that will enhance personal hygiene.

The process of developing the plan started in March 2021 and was facilitated by Bawi Consultants with funding from the African Development Bank through the Sustainable Rural Water and Sanitation Infrastructure for Improved Health and Livelihoods project under the Ministry of Water and Sanitation.

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