Dowa communities hail water project

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ommunity members in Traditional Authority Kayembe in Dowa District have commended World Vision Malawi for installing a solar-powered water system in the area.

The organisation, with funding from World Vision Australia, installed four kiosks in four villages and another at Chamitu Primary School in 2023 to improve water, sanitation and hygiene (Wash) services, especially for children.   

In an interview yesterday, Agnes Selito, a mother of three from Thumba Village, said they previously were using water from wells.

“The kiosk, which has four taps, has eased water woes in the village. We not only access safe water nearby, but it also takes us little time to draw the water unlike in the past when we used to spend hours waiting for our turn at a well,” she said.

Group village head Thumba warned his subjects against vandalising the taps, saying those caught will be fined.

“Clean water is crucial for enhancing personal hygiene. If we want to protect children from waterborne diseases, we need access to clean water. Therefore, we thank World Vision Malawi for the project,” he said.

At Chamitu Primary School, head teacher Josephat Tembo said the kiosk is serving 336 learners.

“The kiosk is helping learners to practise hygiene. As you know, learners have to wash their hands before they eat food. They also need water to drink. As for girls, water is crucial in their changing rooms,” he said.

Chamitu Water Users Association chairperson Mathias Boston said to ensure the kiosks last longer, they formed committees to look after each kiosk.

World Vision Dowa District programmes manager Arnold Tsalayekha said they wanted to help communities prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.

“Our goal has always been to ensure that children live healthy lives. One way of doing this is by improving access to potable water,” he said.