The UNDP resident representative Mia Seppo said this in Blantyre following recent reports of water contamination and water shortage in Lilongwe which is bringing in numerous sanitation challenges.

Seppo said plans of having a water project like the Lilongwe - Salima water project would improve the water situation and sanitation in Lilongwe and all the areas that depend on the city for its water supply.

“Getting clean water to the capital city and making sure that we are not having waterborne diseases is a priority for everybody. Citizens in the capital city need to have clean drinking water,” said Seppo.

She said it was encouraging to see that the government of Malawi is following all the proper procedures to meet all the necessary requirements to roll out the project.

Two weeks ago, President Mutharika assured the people of Lilongwe that government is committed to seeing the program become a reality and will not allow any organization blocking his government’s efforts of providing potable and clean water.

Lilongwe as a city has been facing acute water problems due its population growth which has seen the Lilongwe Water Board rationing water to its customers. Khato Civils, the contractor of the project, has since assembled heavy machinery for the work.