Speaking at the signing ceremony, MWDS Permanent Secretary, Engineers Romas Kamanga, highlighted that the partnership comes at a time when the country continues to face complex WASH challenges from infrastructure gaps to the growing impacts of climate change.
He stated that the MoU should not just remain a ceremonial agreement but must be activated through action plans, coordinated implementation, and ongoing monitoring to ensure real impact on the ground. _“This collaboration will also align with Zambia’s Vision 2030, the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), and Sustainable Development Goal No.6, ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all,” he said.
In his remarks, Zambia Red Cross Society Secretary General, Mr. Cosmas Sakala, reaffirmed ZRCS’s role as an auxiliary to public authorities in humanitarian efforts. “Zambia Red Cross Society is fully committed to supporting the government’s vision for improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services,” he said. “Through this MoU, we will work hand-in-hand with the Ministry to implement vital projects, particularly in underserved areas where access to clean water and proper sanitation remains a pressing need.”
This collaboration aligns with ZRCS’ strategic goal number 2 which states that people lead safe, health and dignified lives and have the opportunity to thrive. Over the next two years, the partnership will focus on innovative solutions, community engagement, and capacity-building to create lasting change in Zambia’s WASH sector.