LUSAKA, Monday, 8th December 2025 – The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, through the Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company (LWSC), is pleased to announce the introduction of the Scheduled Pit Latrine Emptying Programme, set for roll-out in 2026 in the communities of George, Chawama, and Kanyama.
Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu, stated that the programme marks a significant milestone in enhancing faecal sludge management in high-density settlements and underscores Government’s commitment to delivering safe, affordable, and sustainable sanitation services to all citizens. The initial phase will target 5,000 lined pit latrines constructed under the Lusaka Sanitation Programme, ensuring predictable and routine servicing instead of waiting for pits to overflow.
Hon. Nzovu highlighted that a key feature of this initiative is the introduction of flexible, instalment-based payment arrangements to make the service accessible to all households. Subscription to the programme will be K70 per month, allowing families to contribute gradually and avoid the financial burden associated with emergency emptying services.
The Minister noted that Lusaka’s sanitation coverage currently stands at 84%, and Government aims to increase this to 100%. He therefore encouraged residents—particularly those among the targeted 5,000 households—to subscribe and begin making instalment payments in preparation for the 2026 roll-out. Early subscription will help households avoid risks associated with delayed emptying, including environmental pollution, groundwater contamination, and increased susceptibility to sanitation-related diseases such as cholera.
Hon. Nzovu further urged communities, local authorities, institutions, and utilities across the country to emulate this model, describing it as a practical, affordable, and sustainable approach to strengthening sanitation service delivery nationwide.
He emphasised that scheduled pit emptying will play a critical role in preventing environmental contamination, reducing disease outbreaks, and ensuring that household sanitation facilities remain safe, functional, and dignified. The programme also directly supports Government’s broader goal of achieving universal sanitation coverage for all Zambians.
The Minister called upon residents, community leaders, Ward Development Committees, and cooperating partners to support the programme by subscribing and fully utilising the available flexible payment options. Through collective effort, Lusaka can move closer to attaining complete sanitation coverage and safeguarding public health.
The Ministry remains committed to ensuring that all citizens have access to safe, dignified, and sustainable sanitation services. The Scheduled Pit Latrine Emptying Programme represents a transformative intervention that will play a significant role in building a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient Lusaka.
Issued by:
Original Signed
Prince Chiyuni
Principal Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation
