Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to managing transboundary water at the 10th session of the parties of the UN water convention which officially opened today October 23 in Slovenia’ capital, Ljubljana. Delivering her statement during the official opening of the meeting, Vice President Mutale Nalumango stated that Zambia has set up a transformative programme designed to secure water sources for the future with an initial investment of 5.7 million United States dollars.
Mrs Nalumango disclosed that the 2022-2030 transformative programme is aimed at ensuring water security and fostering social economic development. The Vice President indicated that the convention is a cornerstone of global cooperation which allows nations to advance protection of shared waters. She stressed that the water convention fosters peace by preventing conflicts with shared water resources and promotes sustainable development.
She called on countries to adhere to the commitments of the water convention and for assured safe and clean water for the future. Mrs Nalumango announced that Zambia will host the third African implementation and partnership conference on water and sanitation to be held in May 2025. “Zambia has shown commitment to protection of water resources by being actively engaged in various regional frameworks and partnerships to address water security challenges,” she said.
She said the conference, which is planned to be held in Lusaka, will advance the continent’s agenda on water. And in a recorded video message United Nations Deputy Secretary General Amina Mohammed called on other countries to join the water convention in order to foster implementation of sustainable Development Goals on water. Ms Mohammed said transboundary cooperation is essential to addressing water challenges that have received increased risk due to changes in climate. She stressed that transboundary cooperation has for over 30 years provided a framework for collective action and fostered peace for sustainable development.
“The task we have requires stronger cooperation, enhanced data sharing, technology transfer and diplomatic efforts to prevent tensions and ensure water remains a force of peace,” she stated. The conference has brought together delegates from over 100 countries discussing best practices and strategies for managing shared water resources effectively. Zambia is the 55th country and 12th in Africa to join the water convention on the protection and use of transboundary water courses and international lakes, others that joined recently include Zimbabwe and cote D’Ivoire.
Ljubljana, October 23, 2024.
Credit: Office of The Vice President