Malawi Steps Up In Clean Water Drive
By Sellina Siffat Gada
Malawi is making significant progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which aims for universal access to clean water and sanitation by 2030. Through the leadership of the Ministry of Water and Sanitation, transformative projects are reaching both rural and urban areas, improving lives and strengthening communities.
In rural districts such as Rumphi, Nkhotakota, Ntcheu, Mangochi, and Phalombe, the Sustainable Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Infrastructure for Improved Health and Livelihood (SRSWIH) project has benefited over 516,000 households. Backed by the African Development Bank, the initiative combines infrastructure development with job creation and training in climate-resilient water management.
Minister of Water and Sanitation, Abida Mia, said the project is not just about water access but also about empowering communities. “Access to safe water is the foundation of health, dignity, and economic opportunity,” she said.
In Mzimba town, water coverage has increased from 65 to 95 percent, while sanitation has jumped from 45 to 97 percent under the Mzimba Town Water and Sanitation Project. This has led to a dramatic drop in diarrheal diseases—from 35 percent to just 3 percent. “Clean water is not a luxury; it’s a right, and we are committed to delivering it to every Malawian,” Mia added.
Urban schools in Lilongwe are also seeing change. The Lilongwe Water and Sanitation Project, financed by the World Bank, has upgraded sanitation systems in 12 schools, benefiting over 25,000 students and improving hygiene, attendance, and learning.
In Blantyre, a $145 million project is underway to expand water supply, sanitation, and waste management. Nearly half a million residents will benefit, while operational capacity at the Blantyre Water Board is also being enhanced.
Remote areas are adopting low-cost, sustainable technologies. Solar-powered water disinfection systems (SODIS) are treating rainwater for use in rural health centers, significantly improving maternal and child care.
The Ministry is also promoting local innovation. The WASH Innovation Fair provides a platform for young Malawians to showcase homegrown solutions to water and sanitation challenges, encouraging community-led development.
With continued investment, public participation, and innovation, Malawi is on track to achieving universal access to clean water and sanitation — a goal that promises to uplift health, dignity, and opportunity for all.
