BUJUMBURA, March 21 (Xinhua) -- As the world celebrates the world water day on Wednesday, the East African country vows to step up protection of its resources.

"Water is unfortunately facing threats in Burundi and if we don't pay attention, it will be a threat to our health," Burundian Water and Environment Minister Jean Marie Nibirantije said in a declaration to mark the occasion with a theme "Water and Food Security."

The minister said water pollution is among the main threats as it leads to climate change.

According to Nibirantije, extensive human activities on natural resources deter the quality of water in the world in general and in Burundi in particular.

He said, "The promotion of conservation and management of the water resources requires national, regional and international conscience."

Nibirantije said the government is conscientious that the national water resources are at risk.

The government has set up a national policy to better manage the water sector and improve access to clean water, hygiene and sanitation, he said, stressing, "Water infrastructures require good maintenance and management."