PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Release)

RISING THEFT OF WATER METERS

Rising_theft_water_meters

Chingola, 14 April 2026 – Mulonga Water Supply and Sanitation Company Limited (MWSC) has expressed serious concern over the escalating theft of water meters across its service areas, with more than 150 meters stolen over the past six months. The rising trend poses a significant threat to service delivery, operational efficiency, and revenue collection.

The theft of water meters continues to undermine the Company’s operations by contributing to revenue losses, disrupting water supply services, and increasing the cost of replacing stolen infrastructure.

The situation is further exacerbated by increasing cases of theft and vandalism of water infrastructure, which are now emerging as a major threat to the successful implementation of several ongoing service improvement projects. These criminal activities not only derail progress but also divert critical resources meant for system upgrades and service expansion.

The increasing incidents also have the potential to negatively affect the Company’s metering ratio, currently standing at 87%, and may further worsen Non-Revenue Water (NRW) levels, which currently stand at 32%.

The Company has since reported the matter to the Zambia Police Service, and investigations are underway. MWSC is working closely with law enforcement through its Security Office to track down the perpetrators and curb the vice.

Since October 2025, a total of 56 theft cases have been formally recorded, with the highest number reported in Lubengele (17), followed by Kakoso (7). Other affected areas include Lulamba, Chikola, Mutelo Police Camp, Kankoko, Kasompe, and Nchanga North, among others. In Mufulira, three cases have been recorded between 2025 and early 2026.

MWSC is appealing to members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving water infrastructure. Customers are also encouraged to take proactive measures to safeguard their meters, including securing installations and promptly reporting any tampering or theft.

The Company remains committed to providing reliable and sustainable water and sanitation services and urges all stakeholders to play a role in protecting public infrastructure.

Issued by:
Original Signed by

Bright Mtonga

Communications Manager

mtongab@mwsc.com.zm

Mulonga Water Supply and Sanitation Company Limited