01/04/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: +260 955 500 128
Media Relations Office
Clean Cities Initiative (CCI) Zambia
Email: [email protected]
DATE: April 2, 2026
CLEAN CITIES INITIATIVE WELCOMES K23 MILLION UNZA SANITATION FUNDING; CALLS FOR SHIFT FROM CRISIS RESPONSE TO SUSTAINABLE MAINTENANCE
LUSAKA, ZAMBIA – The Clean Cities Initiative (CCI) welcomes the directive by His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema, and the release of K23 million by the Ministry of Education to address the urgent sanitation challenges at the University of Zambia (UNZA).
CCI commends the swift intervention and the deployment of the Zambia National Service (ZNS) to accelerate emergency rehabilitation works.
However, the current situation underscores deeper systemic challenges in institutional sanitation management.
Sanitation Must Be a Standard—Not an Emergency Response
“Sanitation and waste management are not optional services—they are fundamental human rights and pillars of urban dignity,” said Watts Mwila Elliot, Lead Coordinator of CCI. “While the K23 million intervention is critical, our institutions must not deteriorate to crisis levels before receiving attention.”
Strategic Recommendations
1. Closing the Infrastructure Funding Gap:
While K23 million has been allocated, approximately K173 million is required for full modernization. CCI urges stakeholders to develop a multi-year financing roadmap.
2. Transition to Predictive Maintenance:
Shift from emergency repairs to predictive maintenance supported by annual audits.
3. Integrating Sustainable Innovation:
Adopt biogas systems and decentralized wastewater treatment (DEWATS) for long-term sustainability.
4. Ensuring Transparency and Accountability:
Provide clear reporting on expenditure and ensure equitable service delivery.
Call to Action
CCI remains committed to supporting government and stakeholders in building a Clean, Green, and Healthy Zambia. We offer technical expertise to ensure sustainable solutions.
About Clean Cities Initiative (CCI)
The Clean Cities Initiative is Zambia’s premier Urban Transformation Agency, specialized in transitioning metropolitan hubs from basic sanitation to "Smart City" ecosystems. Operating as a high-velocity PPP Accelerator, CCI bridges the gap between policy directives and private sector ex*****on, focusing on integrated infrastructure to promoting sustainable waste management, urban hygiene, and environmental policy innovation. Our goal is to transform Zambian cities into world-class, healthy environments through partnership and community action.