Junior MPs engage ministers on water, sanitation issues

In his remarks, Child President Tinashe Mugodhi said the theme was both a reminder and a call to action. “Access to clean water, safe sanitation and proper hygiene is a basic human right and a foundation for dignity, health and education. “As Junior MPs, we must champion practical community-based solutions that ensure our schools are equipped with safe potable water points, adequate and inclusive sanitation facilities, and that hygiene education becomes part of everyday life,” he said.

Farirai Machivenyika-Senior Reporter

THE inauguration of the 34th Session of the Junior Parliament of Zimbabwe yesterday provided child parliamentarians with an opportunity to engage senior Cabinet Ministers on issues affecting children and to propose solutions to some of the challenges facing their communities.

The session was held under the theme: “Ensuring universal access to water, sanitation and hygiene for every child in Africa.”

In his remarks, Child President Tinashe Mugodhi said the theme was both a reminder and a call to action.

“Access to clean water, safe sanitation and proper hygiene is a basic human right and a foundation for dignity, health and education.

“As Junior MPs, we must champion practical community-based solutions that ensure our schools are equipped with safe potable water points, adequate and inclusive sanitation facilities, and that hygiene education becomes part of everyday life,” he said.

Muzarabani child legislator Carl Muchenje said schools in the district faced shortages of clean water and adequate sanitation facilities.

Another child parliamentarian, Charity Chanda, said it was important for Government to prioritise children with special needs.

Responding to the concerns, Health and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora said Government was working to improve health, water and sanitation services in communities.

“Through the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Government is working to ensure adequate health, water and sanitation facilities in our communities,” he said.

Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister, Professor Mthuli Ncube, said Government would continue mobilising resources for water and sanitation infrastructure.

“We have the devolution funds and the Constituency Development Fund, which also go towards the provision of health facilities and clean water,” he said.