Network Calls for Increased WASH Budget Allocation
The network says such investment will address critical health and environmental priorities, with significant economic benefits.
LILONGWE, Malawi - The Water and Environmental Sanitation Network (WESNET) has issued an urgent appeal for an expanded budget allocation to the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector, arguing that the K133 billion earmarked in the 2023-24 budget is inadequate, writes Bridgette Mwanoka.
"We must invest more in WASH infrastructure and services if we hope to withstand climate shocks and health crises," said WESNET Executive Director Willies Mwandira.
Mwandira revealed WESNET's budget recommendations during the 2024-25 National Pre-Budget Consultations this week.
He asserted that more funds are imperative to strengthen Malawi's WASH sector, particularly in addressing climate disasters and outbreaks like cholera.
An SDG costing analysis from 2019 showed Malawi needs an extra US$258 million annually until 2030 to provide safely managed WASH services nationwide, plus $97 million more for basic coverage.
But the 2023-24 WASH budget allotment falls short by K300 billion, Mwandira said.
He cautioned that Malawi could fail to meet its Sustainable Development Goal commitments if budgetary trends continue.
Finance Minister Simplex Chithyola Banda acknowledged the Ministry's reliance on stakeholder input at the Lilongwe pre-budget meeting Wednesday, but noted not all suggestions can be included in the upcoming budget.
WESNET urges raising the WASH budget allocation from the current 1% average over the past three to five years to at least 5% of the total national budget.
The network says such investment will address critical health and environmental priorities, with significant economic benefits.