By Staff Writer
Mulonga Water Supply and Sanitation Company Limited (MWSC) has embarked on a project to improve water and sanitation services in Kasumbalesa Township in Chililabombwe.
MWSC Communications Manager Bright Mtonga said the Company was currently constructing a borehole, a water reservoir tank, 9 kilometers of water network, 30 Ventilation Improved Pit Latrines and installing 600 water meters.
Mr. Mtonga said that the works were part of the Zambia Water and Sanitation Project (ZWSP) which the Company is undertaking in its service Towns of Chingola, Chililabombwe and Mufulira.
He said that the works once completed will double the current water production and connections on the Zambian side of the border with Congo DR were approximately 1,000 trucks cross on a daily basis.
“The works on the borehole have been completed while the new 110 cubic liters water reservoir and 9 kilometers water networks are ongoing and expected to be completed by the end of 2022,” he said.
Mr. Mtonga Said that the installation of meters in Kasumbalesa will reduce on water wastage, improve service delivery and Company revenue collection.
He said that the project was targeted at installing 600 water meters in the first phase and so far, 250 meters have been installed at households and commercial properties.
“The construction of 30 VIP Pit latrines is also on going and is aimed at improving access to proper sanitation for selected households. The VIP pit latrines are being built at individual households at no cost and are aimed at helping vulnerable members of the community as well as showcasing the ideal design which are responsive to environment protection,” he said.
Mr. Mtonga said that the Company is working to widen its revenue base particularly from domestic customers and Kasumbalesa had the potential due to its strategic location as a border area.
“There has been an increase in demand for water and sanitation services in Kasumbalesa due to the number of people who use the border post and MWSC has taken the initiative. The Kasumbalesa project is one of the many projects the company is undertaking to increasing its revenue base and also increase access to water and sanitation,” he said.