Speaking during an elementary school environmental program at Ndirande Primary School, Public Affairs Officer for the board Evelyn Khonje said they brought the message to learner so that they can carry the message home to parents and guardians on the importance of planting and conserving trees.

Khonje said the process of water purification is costly and the cost can be reduced if there are trees around to act as filter agents before the water is taken through the purification exercise scientifically.

“We came to demonstrate to the students on water filtration and we know that the children are the future of the country and they have seen how we can filter water from the dirty muddy water to where the water is consumable,” said Khonje.

She added that environmental degradation affects the portability of water hence the need for more trees planted along the Mudi Dam catchment area.

Hanna Chonzi, a standard 8 learner at the school said the session has helped her understand the link between conserving the environment and water purification.

“I have learnt a lot in today’s session. When I go home, I will help my parents understand the importance of planting trees along this area so that the board can be able to supply enough water to all surrounding residential areas,” said Chonci.

Blantyre Water Board is working together with Japanese volunteers in the area of water filtration and is sensitizing the communities on the importance of conserving the environment.