ZAMBIA RED CROSS SOCIETY CONSTRUCTS WATER BORNE TOILETS AND SOLAR POWERED WATER RETICULATION SYSTEMS AT THE SAFE HAVEN, IN CHILUMINO, NAMWALA DISTRICT
With support from European Civil Protection & Humanitarian Aid Operations Pilot Programmatic Partnership (ECHO PPP) and Netherlands Red Cross, Zambia Red Cross Society (ZRCS), in response to the floods that occur annually in some parts of the district, operationalized Safe Havens in Flood prone areas, which would cushion the impact of displacement for those directly affected by floods.
Mandondo Ward, is a Community where residents are often forced to seek refuge on higher ground, during floods.
In ensuring those displaced have basic needs met, Zambia Red Cross Society is in the process of constructing water borne toilets and solar powered reticulated water systems, ensuring that those affected have access to safe and clean water and sanitation facilities. Provision of safe and clean water, will also enable the communities nearby to also access this facility.
Flooding in Chilumino poses serious challenges for displaced residents, particularly regarding access to clean and safe water and proper sanitation, which increases the risk of health hazards.
During a progress tour, ZRCS Disaster Management officer James Kwenda explained that the project was initiated after the 2023/2024 rainy season in anticipation of future floods. “This place was identified to ensure that when floods occur, people will have access to safe and clean water,” Kwenda stated. He also emphasized that the facility will not only serve flood victims but also benefit the school during non-emergency periods.
In addition to Chilumino, another water borne toilet is being constructed in Shokombwe to serve a similar purpose. The project aims to address humanitarian and health crises by ensuring that at-risk communities and local actors take action through innovative and integrated strategies to prepare for, respond to, and recover from crises.
Community member, Arnold Siakachite, expressed gratitude for the ongoing efforts. “We appreciate the Zambia Red Cross for their incredible work here in Chilumino. This will go a long way in helping the community during floods,” he said.
The ZRCS continues to collaborate with local and international partners to strengthen disaster preparedness and response in flood-prone areas.