The African Development Bank (AfDB) recently approved a USD135m loan to finance a water and sanitation program targeting small towns in Zambia.
The Integrated Small Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Program aims to increase access to quality water supply and sanitation services in a sustainable manner in 12 towns located in four provinces of Zambia.
Other objectives include ensuring efficient management and operation of the water supply and sewerage facilities on free market principles.
Specifically, this intervention will construct and rehabilitate climate-resilient water and sanitation infrastructure, including expansion into peri-urban and low-cost settlements.
It will also build the capacity of water utilities, regulators and train communities involved in the program, including creating economic opportunities for women and youth.
AfDB’s intervention is expected to improve the health conditions of one million residents through increased access to safe and reliable drinking water and improved sanitation services.
Also, about 5,000 new jobs will be created during and after the implementation of the program.
The program is scheduled to be implemented in 48 months at a total cost of US USD150.57m. AfDB’s loans and grants will cover 80% of the costs.
The Africa Growth Together Fund will contribute USD15m in co-financing, while the Government of Zambia will provide US15m in counterpart funding.
