By Suleman Chitera, Lilongwe
Minister of Water and Sanitation, Abida Mia, has challenged the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA) to spearhead the search for African-made solutions to the continent’s growing water challenges, especially those worsened by climate change.
Speaking on Monday at the official opening of the 95th Strategic and Technological Council (STC) conference in Lilongwe, Mia said Africa continues to suffer the devastating effects of climatic shocks, including recurrent cyclones that have disrupted water sources and sanitation services.
“It is time we, as Africans, find solutions ourselves. The water issues we are facing are unique to our environment and realities. We cannot continue depending on external interventions,” said Mia.
The minister highlighted Malawi’s efforts in integrating climate-resilient systems and green principles into the water and sanitation sector, emphasizing the need for sustainable adaptation strategies in the wake of frequent natural disasters.
Echoing the minister’s sentiments, Lilongwe Water Board Chief Executive Officer, Silili Mbewe, said climate change has significantly impacted water supply in Malawi. He recalled how the board was forced to implement water rationing programs due to droughts — a situation that prompted them to raise Kamuzu Dam’s water levels as a resilience measure.
The four-day conference, which has drawn over 150 water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) experts from across Africa, is being held under the theme: “Green Economy and Climate Resilience in Africa.”
Delegates are expected to deliberate on sustainable water management practices and strategies to strengthen Africa’s ability to cope with the impact of climate change on water and sanitation services.
