ChildFund, with support from DuPont and Davis & Shirtliff, has commissioned an ultra-filtration water purification plant in Nyimba District.This Kwacha 2 million project is a transformative initiative aimed at providing access to clean and safe drinking water for 180 households, 670 learners, and 35 teaching staff. Additionally, over 1,500 people who visit Muchimadzi Clinic monthly will now have access to clean water.

Previously, the community relied on a contaminated water source and a nearby stream, both of which posed significant health risks due to waterborne diseases. Children were particularly vulnerable, as consuming unclean water exposed them to pathogens that could hinder their lifelong development. Access to clean, safe water will reduce the time women and girls spend fetching water and mitigate the impact of increasing pollution, which has led to deteriorating water quality and rising cases of waterborne diseases.

The commissioning of the Muchimadzi Water Project was officiated by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Hon. Mike Mposha, along with ChildFund International President and CEO, Isam Ghanim, who was accompanied by Africa Regional Director, Chege Ngugi.

Mr. Mposha commended ChildFund and its partners for supplementing government efforts to increase access to clean and safe drinking water, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. “Access to clean water is a critical aspect of public health and socio-economic development. This project is a testament to what we can achieve when the government, private sector, and civil society come together for the good of our people,” he said. “Ensuring clean water for all is at the heart of our government’s agenda, and we appreciate ChildFund, DuPont, and Davis & Shirtliff for their dedication to this cause.”

“Water is not just a basic necessity; it is a fundamental human right,” said Isam. “Yet, millions across the world, including right here in Nyimba, face daily challenges accessing clean water. The reality is stark: contaminated water sources contribute to the spread of diseases, undermine livelihoods, and perpetuate cycles of poverty. It is a silent crisis that demands urgent collective action from all stakeholders. This collaboration between ChildFund, Davis & Shirtliff, DuPont, the community, and all other players involved exemplifies the transformative potential that arises when organizations unite with a shared commitment to making a difference.”

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by 2030. Achieving this goal will also significantly contribute to SDG 3, which seeks to “ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages” by eliminating waterborne diseases.Isam emphasized that providing access to safe water is an enormous task that cannot be left to the government alone but requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders.

ChildFund and its implementing partners are optimistic about fostering greater collaboration among government stakeholders, industry, civil society organizations, and international entities to ensure universal access to clean and safe water. This effort is essential for building a healthy society where all, especially children, are strong and thriving.