By Prisca Promise Mashushu

Lilongwe, October 23, Mana:  The Lilongwe Water Board (LWB) has committed to tackling water supply challenges in the Mloza Water Users Association (MWUA) with focus on curbing vandalism and illegal water sales while improving access to clean water at the same time.

Zone Manager for the Lilongwe Water Board’s Southern Zone, Dan Kafuka, said this during the MWUA Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday.

Kafuka said the board is working to ensure the community has access to quality water by expanding the number of water kiosks and constructing a new water treatment plant in Area 23.

"As the Lilongwe Water Board, we are constructing a new water treatment centre that will improve water distribution across the area. In addition, we are collaborating with the Malawi Police Service to reduce cases of vandalism and raise awareness about the impact of illegal water sales," Kafuka said.

He emphasized that the ongoing Salima-Lilongwe water project is also a significant step towards ensuring that all residents, including those in Mloza, have sufficient and well-treated water to promote hygiene and healthy living standards.

The Zone Manager said the AGM, held in Area 23, Lilongwe, highlighted the persistent challenges faced by the MWUA, which covers Area 23, Area 21, Chilinde 1 and 2, and Area 44.

In his sentiment, Senior Chief Tsabango, Chairperson of the MWUA, acknowledged that vandalism and misinformation continue to affect access to water, urging collaboration with local leaders and law enforcement to impose stiff penalties on offenders.

"We are facing vandalism of water meters and other water resources, but through our partnership with the Lilongwe Water Board and the police, we are determined to stop these activities," said Senior Chief Tsabango.

Chief Tsabango also encouraged community members to reject misinformation about water kiosks and to cooperate in protecting vital water resources.