The Desert Research Institute (DRI), in partnership with Development Action for Marginalised Rural Areas (Damra), has handed over laboratory items worth K54 million to the University of Livingstonia (Unilia) Laws Campus to strengthen access to safe water in Rumphi District through free water testing services.
Speaking during the handover, DRI Senior Assistant to the President Braimah Apambire said the initiative will play a crucial role in improving water quality monitoring and sanitation in the district.
“While the university will be using the equipment for their normal water and sanitation classes, they will also be offering water testing activities for the general community in the district, making sure that the water, communities are consuming, is free from harmful elements,” he said.
Unilia Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Bernard Kamanga described the support as a boost to the university’s research capacity.
“The laboratory equipment will enhance the university’s technical ability to conduct regular and vigorous water quality testing, thereby contributing to evidence-based decision-making and improved public health outcomes,” said Kamanga.
Rumphi District Water Officer Lorent Mwalwanda commended the partnership, saying it is timely in tackling contamination and preventing communities from water-related health hazards.
