CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS JOIN HANDS TO ADVOCATE FOR THE HUMAN RIGHTS TO WATER AND FOOD
Lusaka, Friday (November 15, 2024)
The NGO WASH Forum and the Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) have joined efforts to advocate for the Human Rights to Water and Food, that face increasing threats under the pressure of climate change in Zambia.
Water Management Authority (WARMA) data reveals that groundwater levels have declined and that surface water levels in Zambia have dropped by approximately 54% in the second quarter and an average of 70% in the third quarter of 2024 compared to previous years, highlighting a severe water scarcity.
In his address, Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) Senior Economist Harad Lungu emphasized the importance of addressing issues related to water availability, quality, and scarcity, noting the vulnerabilities observed this year.
Mr. Lungu expressed concern over the over-subscription of water abstractions, noting that reports indicate certain water resources are currently over-subscribed and addressing sustainable limits.
He stressed the need for flexibility in governance systems to adapt to new information and changing circumstances, ensuring that existing roles adequately address the challenges faced.
The NGO WASH Forum, through the Communications Officer Bangwe Naviley, emphasised that climate change has impacted negatively on water availability for human consumption, particularly in rural areas that lack reliable water systems.
The situation is mostly severe for the Southern part of the country, where WARMA recommends drilling depths of 80-120 meters.
The concerns expressed by these two institutions were emphasized by many other civil society organizations (CSOs) in attendance at the Learning Event “Governance in the Water and Food Nexus: challenges and opportunities in the age of climate change” that took place in Lusaka on the 13th and 14th of November.
On the first day of the proceedings, the dialogue counted with the participation of the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, the Office of the Auditor General, the National Food and Nutrition Commission, and WARMA.
Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, Principal Climate Change Officer Adaptation, Kasanda Bunda, emphasized the importance of water and food security for a sustainable future.
The event was supported by the European Union Delegation in Zambia, through the Water Voices United Projected, spearheaded by SNV in partnership with the NGO WASH Forum.
In representation of the EU Delegation, Ms. Njira Mtonga stressed the commitment of the EU to continue supporting civil society in Zambia as it contributes to effective governance and management systems that ensure that investments in water, sanitation, and the food chain benefit vulnerable populations.
She reiterated the EU’s commitment to working with various partners, including the government, civil society, and the private sector, to advance economic and social development in Zambia.
This is contained in a statement issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum Advocacy Officer Nonde Lwatula.
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