A grant from the World Bank has been approved to improve Zambia's water supply and sanitation services. The $33 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA) is designated for the Water Supply and Sanitation Services in Growth Centers Program. The focus will be on enhancing governance, operational efficiency, and expanding access to water services in selected areas, including Kafubu, Luapula, North-western, and Western regions.
The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation (MWDS) will implement the program in collaboration with various commercial utilities in Zambia and the National Water Supply and Sanitation Council (NWASCO). Achim Fock, World Bank Country Manager for Zambia, stated, “By prioritizing governance reforms, operational efficiency, and climate resilience, this program will contribute to fostering sustainable development and enhance health outcomes for the Zambians.”
A comprehensive approach will address challenges in the water and sanitation sector, involving governance reforms to improve accountability, transparency, budget allocation, and board practices. The program aims to upgrade billing systems, reduce water losses, and expand services, including household connections and latrines.
Ousmane Yida Yaya-Bocoum, World Bank Senior Water Supply and Sanitation Specialist and Task Team Leader, noted, “The program will promote gender equality by encouraging women's employment and representation in leadership positions within the water sector. It will also strengthen climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts, making water and sanitation services more resilient to climate impacts.”
Overall, the program intends to improve governance related to budget allocation and board practices, enhance utilities' creditworthiness, increase operational cost coverage through revenue, and expand services to growth centers and rural areas. The expected outcomes include reduced waterborne diseases and improved health for communities.
The World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) plays a significant role in assisting the world’s poorest countries, providing grants and low to zero-interest loans to stimulate economic growth and reduce poverty.