By ALICE NACHILEMBE
Water Development Minister Collins Njovu has directed China Henan International Cooperation to accelerate the completion of the Mulonga Water project under the Zambia Water Sanitation project.
The project has faced significant delays, prompting the Minister’s urgent intervention.
During a site visit, Mr. Njovu emphasized the need for swift action, citing the critical importance of water supply to the community. “There is a sense of urgency, and the people are in dire need of water. I expect the contractor to work 27/7 to ensure timely completion,” he stated.
While expressing satisfaction with the quality of work, the Minister stressed that delays could lead to water-borne diseases. “These delays can be termed careless, as we cannot be discussing technical issues now when the contract was signed three years ago. Our people are not interested in explanations; they want water, not excuses.”
Mr. Njovu set a deadline of November 30th for project commissioning. China Henan International assured the Minister of their commitment to expediting the works.
Chingola District Commissioner Raphael Chimupi noted the increasing demand for water in the district due to population growth.
Mulonga Water Sanitation Managing Director Ndila Hamalambo expressed confidence that the project would alleviate water challenges in the three towns.
