Lusaka, Zambia – 13 August 2025 – As part of its commitment to providing equitable and sustainable water supply services, the Government of the Republic of Zambia—through the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation and Mulonga Water Supply and Sanitation Company Limited (MWSC)—is pleased to announce the launch of the Chiwempala Water Supply Improvement Project in Chingola.

This transformative project will address long-standing water challenges affecting more than 15,570 residents of Chiwempala Township, many of whom have endured years of inadequate water access, often receiving supply for less than four hours a day—or none at all.

The initiative aims to improve water reliability, reduce losses, and safeguard public health by replacing aging and damaged infrastructure that has contributed to leakages, contamination risks, and frequent service disruptions. Works will be implemented in phases, with Phase 1 commencing this month, August 2025.

Under Phase 1, the project will deliver:

1. 8 kilometres of new water distribution network.
2. Reconnection of 1,000 households to the upgraded system.
3. Installation of network valves to enhance water distribution management and control.

When fully implemented, the project will replace 16 kilometres of pipelines and reconnect 1,730 households to a safe and consistent water supply.

Currently, Chiwempala’s water network is dilapidated, vandalised, and unfit for purpose. Persistent leakages reduce the volume of water available to consumers and create potential contamination points, posing a serious risk of waterborne disease outbreaks in this densely populated area.

The Chiwempala Water Supply Improvement Project will increase daily access to safe drinking water to an average of 12 hours, from the current four, thereby safeguarding public health and restoring dignity to the community.

In line with the Government’s inclusive development approach, MWSC is working closely with local leaders and residents to recruit a workforce from within Chiwempala. This community-based model promotes shared ownership, responsibility, and transparency in delivering essential public services.

The Government has released ZMW 5,707,330 to fund Phase 1, with a total project investment of ZMW 12,476,000 required for full rehabilitation and completion.

This project marks a major milestone in the Government’s efforts to improve water service delivery in Chingola and demonstrates Zambia’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6—ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. It will complement works under the Zambia Water and Sanitation Project (ZWSP), which is nearing completion, with some sections already undergoing testing ahead of commissioning.

The Ministry calls upon all stakeholders, community members, civic leaders, the private sector, and cooperating partners to support this initiative and work with MWSC to ensure its successful delivery.

Together, we can restore dignity, improve health, and unlock economic potential for the people of Chiwempala.

Issued by:

Original signed by

Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu, MP
Minister of Water Development and Sanitation