Government Moves to Tackle Lusaka Water and Sewer Crisis

Government has intensified efforts to resolve Lusaka’s long-standing water shortages and sewer challenges, pledging urgent interventions, institutional reforms, and long-term investments aimed at achieving universal access by 2035.

Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, disclosed that the Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company (LWSC) is implementing both the Water Supply Investment Master Plan and the Sanitation Master Plan, which target 100 percent service coverage in the next decade.

Mr. Nzovu said several projects are already underway under the Lusaka Sanitation Programme. These include the relocation of sewer pipelines near Parliament Motel and Mass Media, which are now 80 percent complete, as well as upgrades in Desai and Kaunda Square. He added that Chipata and Kanyama Level One Hospitals have been connected to the sewer system, addressing long-standing health concerns.

To mitigate sewer overflows during power outages, the Minister revealed that generators have been installed at critical pumping stations.

He further highlighted ongoing works supported by the African Development Bank, such as Phase II of the Bauleni project, construction of a 4.5-kilometre water supply network in Libala South, rehabilitation of the Airport Road transmission line, and upgrades to the 2.4-kilometre water system in Luangwa’s Feira area.

Mr. Nzovu reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable water and sanitation services for all Lusaka residents.