The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) Board Technical Committee conducted compliance inspections and oversight activities recently from in the Kafue and Zambezi Catchments as part of its mandate to promote sustainable water resources management and strengthen regulatory compliance.
The Committee inspected the Kasaka Gauging Station in Kafue, where members were briefed on water monitoring activities, including routine water level measurements and water quality assessments.
Discussions also focused on opportunities to strengthen monitoring through automation and enhanced collaboration with key stakeholders.
In Mazabuka, the Committee conducted a compliance inspection and engagement meeting at Kaleya Dam. Discussions focused on water utilisation, water allocation, operational demands, catchment pressures, climate variability, and challenges relating to water availability within the operational area.
The Committee noted the increasing pressure on available water resources and emphasised the need for enhanced water conservation measures, efficient water use practices, and strict adherence to water permit conditions to support equitable allocation and long-term protection of water resources.
The Committee later proceeded to Siavonga District, where it conducted compliance inspections at aquaculture facilities operating on Lake Kariba, including Yalelo Fisheries and Zamfresh.
The inspections focused on compliance with water permit conditions, environmental management measures, monitoring requirements, and responsible water use practices.
During the visits, the Committee observed the significant scale of operations being undertaken by the aquaculture facilities and underscored the importance of maintaining high compliance standards in view of the growing demand for water resources and the strategic importance of Lake Kariba to Zambia’s economy, fisheries sector, and food security.
Throughout the tour, the Committee engaged stakeholders on emerging challenges affecting water resources, including climate change, increasing demand for water, compliance obligations, and the importance of strengthening conservation and sustainable utilisation efforts.
The programme concluded with the 7th Board Technical Committee Meeting in Siavonga, during which members considered various applications relating to surface water and groundwater use and received updates on Water Resources Protection Areas and allocated water volumes.
The compliance tour provided valuable insights into sector operations, compliance status, and challenges affecting sustainable water resources management while reaffirming WARMA’s commitment to the effective regulation, protection, and sustainable management of Zambia’s water resources for the benefit of current and future generations.