Clean Water, Clear Vision

Mukobela acts on Matero's needs with a vital water supply solution that renews trust in grassroots leadership and signals a broader development agenda. He says the donation reflects not just service delivery, but a long-term plan to transform Matero through practical, people-centered solutions.

By Francis Maingaila

Matero, Zambia24 – (July 28, 2025) -  Aspiring Matero Constituency Member of Parliament, Hon. Evans Mukobela, has handed over a 10,000-litre water tank to traders at Matero Market, responding to long-standing water supply challenges that have compromised hygiene and disrupted commerce.

Speaking during the handover ceremony—graced by the presence of the UPND Deputy Secretary General Gertrude Imenda—Mukobela emphasized that the initiative was not a political gimmick, but a sincere, community-driven response to urgent needs raised by the marketeers.

“This market has water, but supply is often disrupted. Without backup, traders struggle — no cleaning, no handwashing, no safety,” Mukobela said. “This tank ends that problem. It’s not a favour; it’s a solution.”

The tank, expected to benefit over 1,000 traders and surrounding households, was welcomed with relief and gratitude by the market community.

“We used to go days without water. It was hard to clean our stalls or wash our hands,” said market trader Doreen Phiri. “Now we’ll have backup, and that brings real relief.”

Another trader, Jackson Tembo, emphasized the importance of hygiene in food handling:

 “We handle food, so hygiene is crucial. When water was off, customers would complain. This tank helps us work with confidence.”

James Mwale, another trader, pointed out the economic relief:

“We no longer have to pay for water. It saves us money every day.”

Mukobela said the project was made possible through personal sacrifice, not government funding.

 “I have injected personal resources into this project because I believe leadership starts with service,” he said. “You don’t wait to enter Parliament to start delivering — you lead from where you are.”

He highlighted how the initiative aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s decentralisation agenda, crediting the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) for empowering communities.

“Through decentralised CDF, Bally has put development in your hands. Projects like this are being delivered faster and closer to the people,” he added.

Mukobela also praised the President’s responsiveness to national challenges, especially in the agriculture and energy sectors.

 “When the drought hit and mealie meal prices soared, the President didn’t sit back. He supported farmers and millers. That’s why prices are now stabilising.”

He cited investments in generators and solar energy as strategic government actions to cushion the effects of load shedding while creating jobs for young people.

 “This is a government that listens, plans, and delivers. We’re moving away from politics of shouting to politics of solutions.”

Looking ahead, Mukobela pledged to modernize Matero Market if elected in 2026. His vision includes:

A reliable water supply

Clean and dignified toilet facilities

Functional drainage systems

Proper lighting

Organized waste management

 “This isn’t a dream. It’s a plan waiting for your vote,” he declared, earning enthusiastic applause.

He also urged the community to safeguard the new infrastructure:

“This facility belongs to you. Protect it. Safeguard it. Because it is the beginning of many more improvements to come.”

Imenda: “This Is Leadership That Listens”

UPND Deputy Secretary General Gertrude Imenda commended Mukobela for his prompt response to community concerns, calling it “leadership that listens.”

“With this water tank, traders and nearby residents will now have access to clean water throughout the day—even during the rainy season,” Imenda said.

She emphasized the importance of clean water in promoting public health and hygiene, especially in busy markets like Matero.

“I was shocked yesterday when I visited Bombay Drainage. People are throwing garbage into the system. This must stop,” she warned. “Let’s take care of this facility and keep our surroundings clean.”

Imenda clarified that the water tank was not a political handout, but a shared community responsibility.

“This is your government at work. Let’s use what has been provided responsibly.”

In a humorous aside that drew laughter from the crowd, Imenda addressed public curiosity about her surname:

 “For the record, I am not related to the Imenda you might be thinking of. I stand on my own and I am accountable to the people.”

She described Mukobela’s action as an example of people-centered development, echoing the UPND’s broader transformation agenda.

“This tank is more than just a water source—it is a symbol of responsive leadership. It is what happens when leaders stay connected to the grassroots.”

Imenda urged the community to support leaders who deliver tangible results.

 “Let’s not lose momentum. Let’s stand behind those who bring tangible results. That’s how we build a better Zambia—by starting with communities like Matero.”

She concluded with a powerful reminder:

 “Let’s continue working together to uplift our communities. Thank you.”

Community Reaction: A Long-Awaited Lifeline

Beatrice Njobvu, a long-time trader, said the tank had ended years of stress:

 “We used to carry buckets from home just to keep our stalls clean. Now we can draw water right here. It’s a huge relief.”

The water tank—strategically placed at the center of Matero Market—marks a turning point for both traders and nearby residents. It replaces years of erratic water access, which often forced people to rely on distant or unsafe sources.

As the crowd dispersed after the ceremony, the message was clear: clean water is not just a basic need—it’s a symbol of dignity, opportunity, and leadership that delivers.