Mpande Hills Community School receives water relief

WORLD Vision Zambia in partnership with the Lottery Club of Lusaka have yesterday handed over a 5000 liters water mechanism System to Mpande Hill Community Primary School in Kafue district at a cost of K100, 000.

For several years, pupils of Mpande School has depended on hand pump water for their aqua survival.

Unfortunately, due to it’s long existence, the pump developed rust contaminating the water and putting the lives of both the learners and teachers at high risk of being infected with waterborne diseases such as cholera and dysentery.

But yesterday, the mood and atmosphere of Mpande village was filled with joy as pupils, teachers and community members gathered to sing songs of gratitude for the clean supply of water.

Speaking during the handover, World Vision Resource Acquisition and Communication director Jason Befus reaffirmed the organization’s desire to see all children acquire quality education with good health.

Befus said World Vision through its ‘Wash Zambia’ campaign was investing heavily in water sanitation as water transforms lives. And globally, one person is being reached per 10 seconds with clean water through the organization.

“ With this water system, we are hopeful that there will be an improvement in children’s educational performance, a reduction in absenteeism, especially for girls, and improved retention rates for teachers,” said Befus.

Last year, the organisation in partnership with Madison General insurance Campany Limited Zambia also successfully renovated a 1×2 classroom block.

However, dedication to providing quality education in Zambian communities through joint partnership, shared goals and mutual accountability has been stated and reaffirmed from the organisation.

And Rotary Club of Lusaka Assistant District President Goliath Mungonge who spoke on behalf of the club’s president applauded world vision and all Rotary club members that took the step to help the community with life’s most needed need.

Commissioning the handover, Kafue district Education Board Secretary (DEBS) and guest of Honor Belina Moono said government remains greatful for the support and contributions that World Vision had continued to render to the communities in need.

“The introduction of free education has raised the number of pupils in government schools, therefore, raising the need for good resources and sanitation. We are greatful that you have given us life through water for that is one of the things that Mpande hill primary school lacked,” Moono said.

Meanwhile, receiving the handover, the school head teacher thanked the two organisation for their charitable continued partnership and urged learners, teachers and the nearby community to jealously guard the new water system.

He further outlined other challenges that the school and learners faced such as lack of classrooms, desks, teacher accommodation and good road infrastructures.

The community primary school located in the deep rural of Kafue district has a total number of 275 pupils from Grades 1 to 7 with seven teachers.

By Buumba Mwitumwa

Kalemba April 6, 2023