Malawians could soon face an additional burden on their already strained budgets as discussions on water tariff adjustments have gained momentum with backing from the Parliamentary Committee on Natural Resources.
These discussions come at a time when many families are struggling with the rising cost of living. The committee argues that adjusting water tariffs is necessary to help water boards enhance service delivery, maintain aging infrastructure, and ensure a consistent supply of water across the nation.
Committee chairperson Tiaone Hendry stated that water boards are grappling with operational and financial challenges that hinder their ability to efficiently supply water to households. She said some boards have reached out to the committee seeking support for tariff adjustments, citing rising costs in water production and distribution that complicate their operations.
“If it is really necessary for water boards to be considered on this, then it needs to be done now to prevent any excuses regarding how they will supply water to every household,” Hendry emphasized.
Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture Roza Mbilizi mentioned that the government is pushing to establish a Water and Sanitation Regulatory Framework to strengthen management and oversight in the sector.
She acknowledged that outdated infrastructure is a significant challenge that hinders improving water supply and asserted that substantial investment is required to repair and replace existing systems.
Mbilizi stressed that the government, in collaboration with water boards and regulators, remains committed to enhancing access to safe water and sanitation services for all Malawians.
