The Council Chairperson Mr. Charlie Masumo, has reaffirmed its strong commitment to improving access to clean and safe water as a key driver of social and economic development in Mumbwa District.
Speaking during the commemoration of World Water Day held at Mumbwa Day Secondary School, Mr. Masumo emphasized that water is not only a basic human necessity but also a fundamental pillar for dignity, inclusion, and sustainable development. He noted that this year’s theme, “Water and Gender – Where Water Flows, Gender Grows,” highlights the
urgent need to ensure equitable access to water, particularly for women and girls who are disproportionately affected by water scarcity.
Earlier, in his welcoming remarks, Mr. Simpokolwe underscored the importance of commemorating World Water Day and expressed gratitude to the Council Chairperson for gracing the occasion. The Council Chairperson was accompanied by Jemila Suleman, Councillor for Shimbizhi Ward.
The Council acknowledged that limited access to safe water continues to pose a serious challenge in many communities. Women and girls often bear the burden of walking long distances to fetch water, limiting opportunities for education and economic empowerment. However, improved water access has already begun to transform lives by enhancing school
attendance, improving health outcomes, and increasing participation in productive activities.
Significant progress has been recorded between 2022 and 2025 through investments made under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). In Mumbwa Central alone, approximately 47 boreholes have been drilled, alongside 13 water reticulation projects. In Nangoma Constituency, about 113 boreholes and 11 water systems have been implemented. Overall, the district has achieved approximately 160 boreholes and 24 water reticulation projects, representing an investment of about K18.7 million.
These developments have greatly reduced distances to water sources, improved sanitation standards, and created healthier environments for communities and learners. Despite these achievements, the
Council emphasized the need for sustained efforts to bridge existing gaps, particularly in underserved and rural areas.
In addition to the official proceedings, the event was marked by vibrant participation from schools, which showcased their talents through poems, songs, drama, and debates, all centered on water conservation and gender equality.
The debate competition featured Mumbwa Boarding Secondary School and Mumbwa Day Secondary School, producing the following results:
Overall Positions:
1st Position: Mumbwa Boarding Secondary School
2nd Position: Mumbwa Day Secondary School
Best Speakers:
Fiona Kamuti
Chambwa Emmanuel
Joseph Zulu
Best Summarizer:
Fiona Kamuti
Fiona Kamuti emerged as the standout performer of the competition, earning recognition as both Best Speaker and Best Summarizer with the highest individual score.
Speaking on behalf of the local leadership, Headman Chimoto from Shimbizhi village expressed gratitude to the organizers for selecting his community as the host of this year’s event.
He commended the initiative and called on fellow traditional leaders to take an active role in ensuring that communities safeguard and maintain boreholes. He further appealed for the drilling of more boreholes to enhance access to clean and safe water in rural areas.
The Council further called for strengthened collaboration among stakeholders, increased investment in water infrastructure, and the promotion of gender-responsive policies. Community participation, especially the inclusion of women in decision-making processes, remains critical to ensuring sustainable water management.
Mumbwa Town Council also expressed gratitude to cooperating partners such as ECHO, ChildFund, and Sun/TA for their continued support in expanding water supply systems across the district.
The Council reiterated that access to clean and safe water is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of equitable development. It urged all stakeholders to work together in ensuring that no one, especially women and girls, is left behind.
Issued by:
Public Relations Unit
