In his address delivered during a special church service to mark Africa Public Service Day 2026, Deputy Permanent Secretary Mr. Brian Sichande has called for renewed commitment and strengthened multi-stakeholder partnerships to achieve universal access to water and safe sanitation by the year 2063.

Speaking under this year’s theme, “Enhancing Public Sector Institutions and Empowering Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships to Achieve Water Availability and Safe Sanitation by 2063,” Mr. Sichande emphasized that sustainable development cannot be achieved by public institutions working in isolation.

“Success depends on meaningful collaboration among government agencies, local authorities, cooperating partners, the private sector, faith-based organizations, traditional leaders, and communities themselves,” Mr. Sichande stated.

The Deputy Permanent Secretary described water as life, noting that safe sanitation is essential for human dignity, public health, environmental sustainability, and economic growth. He stressed that achieving universal access to these essential services requires deliberate efforts, innovative solutions, and strong partnerships among all stakeholders.

Mr. Sichande reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity, promoting transparency and accountability, and ensuring efficient service delivery. He called upon public servants to be faithful stewards of resources and to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.

“Allow me to commend all public servants who continue to work tirelessly under challenging circumstances to provide essential services,” Mr. Sichande said. “Your dedication contributes significantly to national development and the realization of our shared aspirations for a prosperous and healthy society.”

Mr. Sichande urged citizens to reflect on their individual and collective responsibility to protect water resources, promote good sanitation practices, and support initiatives aimed at improving access to these essential services.

The Deputy Permanent Secretary concluded by calling on all stakeholders to recommit to the principles of servant leadership, integrity, excellence, and collaboration in line with the aspirations of the African Union Agenda 2063.

Public Service Day is celebrated annually across the country to recognize the invaluable role that public servants play in national development and to reflect on ways to enhance service delivery to citizens.