In a laudable display of environmental stewardship, the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Abida Sidik Mia, alongside her Deputy, Liana Kakhobwe Chapota, took charge of the Corporate Tree Planting Day for the Central Region Water Board at the Chiole catchment area in Ntcheu district. This initiative unfolded following the inauguration of the 2024 Tree Planting season by His Excellency, Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, at Mpasa Hills, Traditional Authority Nkhumba in Phalombe district.
Addressing the gathering at the site, the Minister commended the CRWB for their exemplary cooperation in the restoration of catchments. She emphasized that the Government has entrusted Water Boards nationwide with the vital task of managing their water source catchments effectively.
Furthermore, the Minister addressed the pressing water challenges confronting the district, affirming ongoing efforts to enhance lifting capacity, thereby benefiting approximately 24,000 individuals with 2,500 connections in the district.
Identifying infrastructure and water sources as pivotal concerns, the Minister urged swift progress on infrastructure endeavors to alleviate water scarcity in Ntcheu Town, assuring residents of governmental support.
“To the residents of Ntcheu Town, I empathize with your predicament; however, rest assured, the government stands in solidarity with you, relentlessly striving for an enhanced water supply for Ntcheu Town,” she asserted.
Ntcheu Town’s demand stands at 127,680 cubic meters per month, with water sources intended to yield 136,200.96 cubic meters monthly. Nevertheless, due to the insufficient lifting capacity of the booster pump, the Board can only generate 78,624.30 cubic meters per month.
Noteworthy figures present at the event included Inkosi Ya Makosi Gomani 5 and his Chiefs, alongside personnel from the Ministry, CRWB, Ntcheu District Council, and local community members, all actively engaging in tree planting endeavors at the catchment area.
