10/09/2025
VOZ LAUNCHES WAVERS PROJECT TO ADVANCE WATER, SANITATION, AND HYGIENE RIGHTS IN PETAUKE
Vision Outreach Zambia (VOZ) has launched the WASH Adolescent Voices for Equitable and Resilient Services (WAVERS) project in Petauke District, Eastern Province.
VOZ, a member of the Zambia NGO WASH Forum, launched the project to accelerate the actualisation of the human right to water, sanitation, and hygiene.
Addressing stakeholders during an inception meeting at Alpha Executive Lodge in Petauke, VOZ Executive Director, Henry Mulenga, noted that the launch of the project represents a journey to improve health, dignity, and the future of communities.
Mulenga stated that the project will inform similar efforts in other districts under the Water Voices United initiative.
He emphasised the importance of uniting organisations to improve water and sanitation activities in a better and more inclusive way.
Mulenga said the success of the WAVERS project will depend on how well communities, traditional leaders, and government departments work together.
He said the project places strong emphasis on adolescent empowerment, ensuring that young people are equipped with knowledge and tools to lead change in their communities.
Mulenga highlighted the importance of integrating water resource management into school programmes to build long-term resilience.
He said menstrual hygiene must be addressed holistically, with dignity and access for every girl regardless of background.
The VOZ Executive Director urged stakeholders to embrace inclusive planning and ensure that no child is left behind due to social or physical barriers.
Meanwhile, Government has welcomed the launch of the WASH Adolescent Voices for Equitable and Resilient Services (WAVERS) project.
Petauke District Administrative Officer (DAO) Levinson Nthama expressed gratitude to the European Union, the Danish People’s Aid, SNV, and the NGO WASH Forum for supporting the initiative.
Nthama stated that the project will run until 2028, with a strong focus on Petauke District.
He said the WAVERS project aims to address inequalities in access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services, particularly among adolescents, including boys, girls, and persons with disabilities.
Nthama emphasised that the project is inclusive and aligned with the principle of leaving no one behind.
He said key activities under the project include adolescent training, community engagement, youth empowerment, media and advocacy, capacity building, and policy integration.
Nthama called on stakeholders to support these efforts, noting that they play a vital role in guiding communities and linking them to essential services.
He said areas of success will include improved infrastructure, hygiene education, inclusive design, and active community involvement.
Nthama highlighted that WASH in schools is crucial for improving education outcomes.
He added that children educated on hygiene can become agents of change within their communities.
Nthama urged all involved to work hard to ensure that every child has access to safe, clean, and inclusive WASH facilities.
The WAVERS project is funded by the Water Voices United initiative through Output Based Projects.
The Water Voices United is a transformative four-year project, co-funded by the European Union and Danish People's Aid and spearheaded by SNV in partnership with the NGO WASH Forum. This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities and synergies among WASH Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Zambia. By fostering the CSOs role in WASH governance, the project supports the Zambian Government's efforts towards the progressive realization of the Human Right to Water and Sanitation. Together, we are not just aiming for change; we're ensuring a sustainable and equitable future where access to clean water and safe sanitation becomes a reality for all.
