Zambia Invests K122.6 Million in School Sanitation As Government Promotes Handwashing

Zambia is intensifying efforts to promote hygiene among schoolchildren ahead of Global Handwashing Day, commemorated on 15 October. The call was made during the 2026 Battle of the Brains Global Handwashing Day Spelling Bee Competition held in Lusaka under the theme “Be a Handwashing Hero!”

Speaking at the event, Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation Permanent Secretary Eng. Romas Kamanga said handwashing with soap and clean water is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. He urged learners to practise proper hygiene and encourage others to do the same.

The government is facilitating the construction of 155 waterborne sanitation facilities in rural primary schools at a cost of K122.6 million. The facilities are expected to improve sanitation, protect learners' dignity and create healthier learning environments, particularly in rural communities.

Eng. Kamanga also highlighted concerns about cholera transmission reported in Lusaka and Central provinces, emphasising that handwashing should be a daily habit rather than a practice observed only during special commemorations.

The competition, supported by NWASCO, WaterAid Zambia and BORDA Zambia, uses educational activities to teach children the importance of hygiene. Eng. Kamanga urged partners to expand the initiative nationwide, encouraging schools and communities to make proper handwashing part of everyday life.