๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ซ๐๐ฏ๐ข๐๐ฐ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ง๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐ฉ๐จ๐ฅ๐ข๐๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ง๐ก๐๐ง๐๐ ๐ฌ๐๐ซ๐ฏ๐ข๐๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐ฒ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐๐
16th January, 2026
As part of its ongoing efforts to improve operations and service delivery, the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) is reviewing specific internal policies to ensure they effectively support the Authorityโs mandate and evolving responsibilities.
The review meeting, being held in Lusaka with support from the Public Service Management Division (PSMD), isย assessing existing policies to align them with WARMAโs operational priorities.
Guided by its pillars of Operational Excellence and Human Capital Development, the review aims to ensure the Authority remains effective, accountable,and well-equipped to address emerging challenges in water resources management, in line with its 2022โ2026 Strategic Plan.
Speaking during the ongoing review meeting, WARMA Acting Director General, Mrs. Misozi Ngulube-Lumpa, emphasised that strong and responsive policies are essential for regulating, monitoring, and sustainably managing Zambiaโs water resources.
She explained that the review focuses on aligning institutional processes with strategic objectives, enhancing performance management systems, and improving workforce capacity to respond to emerging water challenges.
Mrs. Ngulube-Lumpa noted that these policies strengthen WARMAโs ability to manage Zambiaโs water resources by improving employee productivity, planning, and monitoring. They support efficient service delivery, evidence-based decision-making, and effective responses to emerging water challenges, safeguarding water quality, availability, and sustainable use for all.
The ongoing policy review is part of WARMAโs broader commitment to improve operations, reinforce accountability, and ensure that the Authority continues to deliver quality services while safeguarding Zambiaโs water resources for current and future generations.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐
ย on being awarded a Certificate by Graduate Women Zambia for her outstanding work in promoting the status of women and girls through education.END///
END///
END///
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ข๐ง๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐ฅ๐๐๐ ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ ๐จ๐ง ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ข๐ง๐๐๐ฅ๐ ๐ฐ๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐ซ๐๐ฌ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐๐ ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐๐ ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐๐๐ฐ๐
Date: 25th, November, 2025
WARMA, through the Luangwa Catchment Office, played an instrumental role in the Kabwe Public Forum on Sustainable Water Resource Management, held on 21st November 2025 in partnership with the Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ) Kabwe Branch.
Our experts, Eng. Mumba Kolala and Eng. Goodfellow Mphande, shared practical insights on sustainable groundwater development and the management of dams, weirs, and surface water systems in the context of climate change, highlighting strategies that support long-term water security for communities.
EIZ Kabwe Branch Chairperson and WARMA Luangwa Catchment Manager, Eng. Anthony Chabala, emphasized the importance of collaboration between engineers, regulators, and communities in safeguarding Zambiaโs water resources.
The forum showcased WARMAโs commitment to promoting a water-secure and climate-resilient Zambia, reinforcing the Authorityโs leadership in sustainable water resource management and its collaborative approach with stakeholders and local communities.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐๐๐ฌ ๐ฐ๐จ๐ซ๐ค๐ฌ๐ก๐จ๐ฉ ๐จ๐ง ๐๐จ๐ซ๐๐ก๐จ๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ง๐๐๐ซ๐๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ ๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐๐ฐ๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐๐ ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฉ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐
Date: 8 November, 2025
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA), with support from UNICEF, has concluded a three-day workshop in Mansa, Luapula Province, focused on professional borehole drilling and sustainable groundwater management. The training brought together key stakeholders across the province.
During the closing ceremony, WARMA Director of Operations, Eng. Chisanga Siwale, presented certificates of participation and urged attendees to champion sustainable drilling practices. He emphasized that the workshop aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure compliance with professional standards and strengthen the protection of groundwater nationwide.
Meanwhile, WARMAโs Chambeshi Catchment Manager, Eng. Mwiza Muzumara, highlighted the strides made in mapping and safeguarding recharge areas and other critical zones that support aquifers.
He noted that protecting these areas is essential for reliable water supply, economic activities, and long-term sustainability. Eng. Muzumara further stressed that regular water quality monitoring and active community engagement are key to maintaining safe and sustainable groundwater resources.
Participants received hands-on training in water quality monitoring, borehole inspections, and ensuring adherence to WARMA standards. The workshop reinforced the importance of professional drilling, responsible procurement, and proactive groundwater protection in providing safe and reliable water to communities.
END///
๐๐ญ๐ซ๐๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ญ๐๐ค๐๐ก๐จ๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐จ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐๐๐จ๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ข๐ง๐๐๐ฅ๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ง๐๐ ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ
Date: 7th November, 2025
Collaboration and stakeholder engagement are at the core of WARMAโs mandate, as water resources cannot be effectively managed without the involvement of key partners such as local authorities who play a critical role in planning and land allocation.
With this in mind, the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA), through the Luangwa Catchment Office led by Catchment Manager Mr. Anthony Chabala, paid a courtesy call on the Mayor of Kabwe, His Worship Mr. Patrick Chishala. The engagement focused on strengthening collaboration and enhancing WARMAโs presence in Kabwe District and surrounding areas.
We extend our appreciation to the Mayor for the warm reception and look forward to continued collaboration toward a water-secure future for all.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ญ๐ซ๐๐ข๐ง๐ฌ ๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐ข๐จ๐ฎ๐ฌ ๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ค๐๐ก๐จ๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ง ๐ฌ๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐๐ก๐จ๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ ๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐๐ฐ๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐ฉ๐ซ๐จ๐ญ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐ข๐ง ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฉ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐
Date: 5th November, 2025
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA), with support from the United Nations Childrenโs Fund (UNICEF) through the WASHE Programme, is hosting a three-day capacity-building workshop in Mansa, Luapula Province, focused on the professionalization of drilling standards, borehole drilling, supervision, contracting, and groundwater protection.
The workshop brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, including traditional leadership representatives, drilling companies, local authority officials, Ministry of Local Government personnel, inspectors and engineers from the Water Development sector, heads of government departments, civil society actors, and other key partners involved in water resource management.
Speaking at the official opening of the workshop, Luapula Province Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Prudence Chinama Kangwa, emphasized that adopting professional drilling standards, proper contracting practices, and safeguarding groundwater are essential for sustainable development. She highlighted that these measures will strengthen agricultural productivity, improve public health, enhance rural livelihoods, and support education, particularly for women and girls.
Mrs. Kangwa stressed that if communities embrace professionalism in drilling, contracting, and groundwater protection, Luapula Province can lay a strong foundation for a sustainable water supply system, improved school attendance, better maternal health, and increased economic participation. She further commended WARMA and its partners, including UNICEF, for promoting high standards in groundwater management, noting that the initiative aligns with the governmentโs broader agenda on climate resilience and sustainable service delivery.
Meanwhile, WARMA Acting Director General, Mrs. Misozi Ngulube-Lumpa, noted that boreholes have become a crucial source of water for households, schools, and local businesses. However, she cautioned that improper siting, overuse, and contamination can compromise their functionality and water quality.
She revealed that WARMA continues to work closely with stakeholders through inspections, technical guidance, and community engagement to ensure that boreholes serve their intended purpose safely and sustainably.
Mrs. Ngulube-Lumpa explained that the training will focus on professional drilling standards, responsible procurement and contracting, and groundwater protection as the foundation of sustainable water management.
She noted that professional drilling standards ensure every borehole meets rigorous technical specifications, is properly supervised, and delivers safe, high-quality water. Responsible procurement and contracting promote accountability and efficiency in the use of public resources through the Zambian Government Electronic Tendering System (eGP), which ensures transparency, value for money, and institutional trust. Groundwater protection preserves this vital resource from contamination through the establishment of protection zones, risk assessments, and proactive community engagement.
She further highlighted that, building on these core areas, the workshop strengthens data collection, information management, and community sensitization, while supporting the development of groundwater databases and analytical tools such as heat maps.
These efforts will guide evidence-based decisions on borehole siting and sustainable water allocation, ensuring that communities in Luapula Province have reliable access to clean and safe water for generations to come.
Mrs. Ngulube-Lumpa underscored that delivering safe water requires excellence, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to protecting the sources upon which communities depend. She reaffirmed WARMAโs commitment to ensuring that all groundwater development activities are conducted responsibly, transparently, and in alignment with national water management standards.
This initiative reflects WARMAโs unwavering commitment to excellence, transparency, and resilience in Zambiaโs water sector. By bringing together government officials, traditional leaders, drilling companies, civil society, and other key stakeholders, with the continued support of UNICEF, the Authority continues to build capacity, uphold professional standards, and promote sustainable groundwater management across Luapula Province and beyond.
END///
๐๐ข๐ง๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐๐ณ๐จ๐ฏ๐ฎ ๐๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ง๐จ๐ซ ๐๐จ๐จ๐ซ๐๐ข๐ง๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ญ ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ฌ
Date: 3 November, 2025
Today, the Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu, MP, hosted a Donor Coordination Meeting at WARMA Headquarters in Lusaka, bringing together development partners such as the World Bank, Lead Cooperating Partner, NGO WASH, and other stakeholders.
Hon. Nzovu highlighted that 2025 has seen significant progress in Zambiaโs water sector, including the advanced review of the Water Resources Management Act No. 21 of 2011. He noted that the validation process has been completed, and a laymanโs draft submitted to the Ministry of Justice for final review.
The Minister emphasized that the proposed amendments aim to improve business efficiency by reducing permitting periods. They also enhance resource protection by strengthening penalties for illegal abstraction and pollution and align national practices with international governance standards. These reforms are critical to addressing challenges such as illegal mining while supporting agriculture, energy, and other water-dependent sectors.
Looking ahead, Hon. Nzovu outlined the key pillars of the 2026 National Budget, highlighting water infrastructure development, which includes the construction and rehabilitation of 60 dams. He also emphasized service quality and efficiency, focusing on the expansion of piped water services. Additionally, data, research, and resource mapping will be prioritized, including comprehensive groundwater exploration and aquifer mapping programmes. He noted that sustainable water delivery relies on strong institutions supported by sound financing from both Government and development partners.
WARMA remains committed to a sustainable and water-secure Zambia by supporting government policies, strengthening governance, and ensuring that water resources are managed efficiently and equitably while protecting the countryโs aquatic ecosystems.
END///
๐ผ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ช๐๐๐๐๐, ๐ท๐๐๐๐๐๐, ๐๐๐ ๐ท๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐!
Date: 23 October, 2025
From the vibrant chitenge outfits to shared laughter and lunch, WARMA staff came together to celebrate 61 years of Zambiaโs independence in a true spirit of unity.
This celebration reminded us that, just like water, unity keeps us flowing forward as one nation, strong, resilient, and full of purpose.
Together, we honour Zambiaโs spirit and reaffirm our commitment to safeguard the nationโs water resources for generations to come.
#๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ด๐ก61 #๐๐๐๐ก๐ฆ๐ผ๐๐ท๐๐ฃ๐๐๐ ๐๐ก๐ฆ #๐๐ด๐ ๐๐ด๐น๐๐๐๐๐ฆ #๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ก๐๐๐ผ๐ ๐๐ข๐๐น๐ข๐ก๐ข๐๐
END///
๐๐ข๐ง๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐จ๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐ญ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐ก๐จ๐ง๐ ๐ฐ๐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ข๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐๐ฌ ๐๐ข๐ซ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ฉ๐ซ๐จ๐ญ๐๐๐ญ ๐ฐ๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐ฌ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐๐๐ฌ
17th October, 2025
Today, the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) joined Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu, Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, on a tour of Chongwe District to assess the water situation.
The visit also included Hon. Sylvia Masebo, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, who is also the Chongwe Member of Parliament, and representatives from the Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company (LWSC).
The tour focused on addressing the growing pressure on the Chongwe Catchment, caused by rapid agricultural expansion, increased human activities, and the impacts of climate change.
๐๐ข๐ง๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ข๐๐ฅ ๐๐ข๐ซ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ ๐๐ฒ ๐๐๐๐๐:
๐ท๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ด๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐พ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ : To declare it a Water Protection Area to safeguard this vital water source.
๐น๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐พ๐๐๐๐ ๐ผ๐๐: WARMA continues to enforce equitable and sustainable water allocation through compliance measures that balance competing demands and maintain ecological sustainability within the Chongwe Catchment.
๐๐๐๐๐โ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐จ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ฏ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ
- Continuous monitoring and data collection on river and dam flows and levels to support regulatory compliance and sustainable allocation.
- Enforcing water management regulations, including addressing illegal obstruction of waterways.
- Collaborating with local authorities to protect eco-sensitive and recharge areas from inappropriate land use.
- Engaging farmers and other water users to promote sustainable irrigation practices and optimize limited water resources.
Through these interventions, WARMA remains committed to the sustainable management and long-term protection of water resources in the Chongwe Catchment.
END///
๐ช๐๐ฅ๐ ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐๐ฒ๐น๐ผ๐ฝ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐๐ฎ๐บ ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ณ๐ฒ๐๐ ๐๐ป๐๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ผ ๐๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ป๐ด๐๐ต๐ฒ๐ป ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฒ๐ฐ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ฐ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐น๐ถ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ
Date: 8th October, 2025
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) is developing the Dam Safety Inspection Guidelines, a crucial step in safeguarding Zambiaโs water security, dam integrity, and climate resilience.
Speaking during the ongoing technical meeting to review the draft of the guidelines, Acting Director General Mrs. Misozi Ngulube-Lumpa emphasized that โ๐ฅ๐ข๐ฎ๐ด ๐ข๐ณ๐ฆ ๐ค๐ณ๐ช๐ต๐ช๐ค๐ข๐ญ ๐ฏ๐ข๐ต๐ช๐ฐ๐ฏ๐ข๐ญ ๐ข๐ด๐ด๐ฆ๐ต๐ด ๐ด๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฑ๐ฐ๐ณ๐ต๐ช๐ฏ๐จ ๐ข๐จ๐ณ๐ช๐ค๐ถ๐ญ๐ต๐ถ๐ณ๐ฆ, ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ฆ๐ณ๐จ๐บ ๐จ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ฆ๐ณ๐ข๐ต๐ช๐ฐ๐ฏ, ๐ธ๐ข๐ต๐ฆ๐ณ ๐ด๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฑ๐ญ๐บ, ๐ข๐ฏ๐ฅ ๐ค๐ญ๐ช๐ฎ๐ข๐ต๐ฆ ๐ณ๐ฆ๐ด๐ช๐ญ๐ช๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ค๐ฆ ๐ฃ๐ถ๐ต ๐ต๐ฉ๐ฆ๐ช๐ณ ๐ด๐ข๐ง๐ฆ๐ต๐บ ๐ข๐ฏ๐ฅ ๐ฑ๐ณ๐ฐ๐ฑ๐ฆ๐ณ ๐ฎ๐ข๐ฏ๐ข๐จ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ต ๐ข๐ณ๐ฆ ๐ฆ๐ฒ๐ถ๐ข๐ญ๐ญ๐บ ๐ท๐ช๐ต๐ข๐ญ ๐ต๐ฐ ๐ฑ๐ณ๐ฐ๐ต๐ฆ๐ค๐ต๐ช๐ฏ๐จ ๐ญ๐ช๐ท๐ฆ๐ด, ๐ฑ๐ณ๐ฐ๐ฑ๐ฆ๐ณ๐ต๐บ, ๐ข๐ฏ๐ฅ ๐ต๐ฉ๐ฆ ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ท๐ช๐ณ๐ฐ๐ฏ๐ฎ๐ฆ๐ฏ๐ต.โ
She noted that the development of the guidelines is not merely a technical exercise but a national commitment to strengthen oversight, promote safe infrastructure, and build resilience against the impacts of climate change. As Zambiaโs water infrastructure continues to expand, the need to protect lives, property, and investments from preventable disasters has become both urgent and strategic.
Mrs. Ngulube-Lumpa added that the absence of comprehensive dam safety inspection standards creates regulatory gaps and increased vulnerability to dam-related risks, which could have serious consequences for public safety, environmental integrity, and socio-economic development.
Anchored on Sections 120 to 124 of the Water Resources Management Act No. 21 of 2011, the guidelines empower WARMA to regulate, monitor, and enforce dam safety standards. They also complement other statutory instruments, including the emerging Water Resources Management (Water Harvesting and Storage) Regulations of 2024. Together, these frameworks provide a strong foundation for WARMA to operationalize its regulatory mandate and strengthen oversight on dam safety and water storage systems.
The guidelines aim to establish a robust and scientific framework for dam safety across Zambia by ensuring.
- ๐๐น๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐ถ๐๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฐ๐: Providing clear, enforceable standards for the design, construction, operation, and decommissioning of all dams, regardless of size or ownership.
- ๐ฅ๐ถ๐๐ธ ๐ ๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป: Incorporating proactive measures such as hazard classification and mandatory Emergency Preparedness and Response Plans (EPRPs) to safeguard communities and assets.
- ๐๐น๐ผ๐ฏ๐ฎ๐น ๐๐น๐ถ๐ด๐ป๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐: Adopting best practices from the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), and the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD) to attract and protect investment in water infrastructure.
At the national level, the Dam Safety Inspection Guidelines will play a pivotal role in disaster risk reduction, environmental protection, sustainable water resource management, and economic development. They are fully aligned with Zambiaโs Vision 2030, the Eighth National Development Plan, and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 6 Clean Water and Sanitation and Goal 13 Climate Action.
As the national regulator, WARMA remains committed to enforcing dam safety standards, conducting inspections, and guiding the sustainable management of water infrastructure to safeguard communities, protect the environment, and secure Zambiaโs water future.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐
18th September, 2025
WARMA is excited to be participating in the Muchinga Investment Forum and Exposition 2025, which opened its doors on Monday, 15 September, and is running until 19 September in Chinsali District of Muchinga Province.
This five-day event, officiated by the Republican President, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, provides a unique platform for WARMA to explore areas of partnership with investors while ensuring that both local and international investors adopt sustainable environmental practices that safeguard Zambiaโs water resources.
As the regulator of water resources, WARMA is also emphasizing the importance of compliance with water permit requirements, ensuring that investments contribute positively to national development without negatively impacting water bodies.
The Expo is being held under the theme: โ๐๐๐ฐ๐๐ฐ๐ก๐ช๐๐จ ๐๐๐ท๐๐ด๐ก๐ฎ๐๐ฏ๐ก ๐๐ฐ๐ ๐ ๐บ๐ณ๐๐ฆ๐ ๐๐ฏ๐ ๐ป๐ฆ๐๐ญ๐ก๐ฉ๐ฆ ๐ธ๐ฏ๐ฃ๐ช๐๐ฐ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฏ๐ก ๐ก๐ฉ๐๐ฐ๐ข๐จโ ๐๐ถ๐ ๐ต๐๐ช๐๐ข๐๐ญ๐ ๐ท๐ฆ๐ฃ๐ฆ๐๐ฐ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฏ๐ก.โ
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ญ๐๐ ๐๐ฒ ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฏ๐๐ฅ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐ค๐ ๐๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ง๐ฒ๐ข๐ค๐
Date: 14th September, 2025
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) has conducted awareness and engagement meetings with communities severely affected by the rising water levels of Lake Tanganyika.
In Chipwa village, located at the confluence of the Kalambo River and Lake Tanganyika on the border with Tanzania, public infrastructure, including a primary school, has already been submerged.
WARMA also visited Myamba, a small lakeshore village accessible only by boat, where residents face similar risks. The limited access to both communities underscores the urgency of proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.
During the engagements, WARMA emphasized the dangers of remaining along the lake shores as the rainy season approaches and strongly urged residents to relocate to higher ground. The Authority highlighted the critical need for early action to prevent loss of life and damage to infrastructure.
The WARMA team was joined by a representative of His Royal Highness Senior Chief Tafuna of the Lungu people of Mpulungu, who pledged to continue engaging stakeholders to help identify alternative land for the affected communities.
These community engagements are part of broader awareness and stakeholder engagement campaigns conducted by the Authority. They align with WARMAโs strategic pillars on Stakeholder Engagement, which focuses on building strong relationships with key partners to enhance communication, information sharing, and integrated water resources management, and Public Awareness and Visibility, aimed at increasing the publicโs understanding of water resource issues and the Authorityโs presence in communities.
As outlined in its 2022โ2026 Strategic Plan, WARMA seeks to support Zambiaโs economic growth through effective water resources governance and management. The planโs strategic direction prioritizes sustainable water management and the protection of vital water resources for current and future generations.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ญ๐ซ๐๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ง๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐ฉ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ง๐ ๐ฎ
Date: 13th September, 2025
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) has continued its stakeholder engagements in Mpulungu, bringing together the District Administration, government departments, traditional leaders, and local communities.
Speaking during the engagement, Mpulungu District Commissioner Gehard Sikazwe highlighted that the rising water levels of Lake Tanganyika have devastated the district and surrounding areas.
He explained that businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector, have been forced to close following the submergence of lodges and other infrastructure, noting that the situation poses a significant risk to communities.
Mr. Sikazwe applauded WARMA for sensitizing local communities and pledged the full support of the district administration to ensure the implementation of appropriate measures. He further commended WARMA for working closely with stakeholders in an effort to establish buffer zones and promote sustainable solutions to mitigate the impacts.
The engagements focused on the rising water levels in Lake Tanganyika, encroachment of critical water bodies, and the urgent need to safeguard lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure.
WARMA is also leveraging community radio programmes to broaden the reach of its messages.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ง๐ฌ๐ข๐๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐๐ญ๐๐ค๐๐ก๐จ๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ซ๐ง ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฏ๐ข๐ง๐๐ ๐จ๐ง ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ค๐ ๐๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ง๐ฒ๐ข๐ค๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฏ๐๐ฅ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ง๐๐ซ๐จ๐๐๐ก๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐จ๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐๐จ๐๐ข๐๐ฌ
12th September, 2025
From Kasama to Mpulungu, the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) has intensified stakeholder engagements with the Provincial Administration, Heads of Government Departments, parastatals, communities, and other key partners in Northern Province.
These engagements, complemented by radio programmes and community outreach initiatives such as road shows, are focused on the urgent challenges of rising water levels in Lake Tanganyika as well as the growing threats of pollution and encroachment on critical water bodies across the province.
Leading the campaign, Acting Director General Mrs. Misozi Ngulube-Lumpa underscored that protecting Zambiaโs water resources is a shared responsibility. She noted that the rising lake levels have already displaced communities in Mpulungu and surrounding areas, threatening homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
WARMA is also engaging affected communities on mitigation measures to safeguard property and lives while proactively reducing future risks.
The Authority continues to work closely with stakeholders to establish buffer zones, strengthen regulatory enforcement, and enhance public awareness.
WARMA remains committed to protecting Zambiaโs water resources to ensure sustainable development and the wellbeing of communities, both now and for generations to come.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐๐ข๐ฅ๐ข๐ณ๐๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ฅ๐ญ ๐๐ญ๐๐ค๐๐ก๐จ๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ญ๐๐๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐๐ฎ๐๐ฎ ๐๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ซ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ฒ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฌ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐๐๐ฌ
Date: 9th September, 2025
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) is intensifying efforts to safeguard the Kafubu River and other vital water resources in the Copperbelt Province. These water sources face increasing threats from informal settlements, unregulated developments, and pollution, putting water security, public health, and supply reliability at risk.
The Kafubu River, which serves Ndola and surrounding communities, is under growing pressure, while similar challenges affect aquifers and other rivers across the province, leading to higher treatment costs and potential disruptions in supply.
In response, WARMA engaged key stakeholders, including the Copperbelt Provincial Permanent Secretary, Ndola City Council, Kafubu Water and Sanitation Company, and representatives from industries and communities. The discussions focused on collaborative solutions to halt encroachments, restore degraded areas, and protect riparian zones.
Acting Director General Mrs. Misozi Ngulube-Lumpa emphasized the importance of partnership: โThese engagements bring together leadership, councils, utilities, industries, and communities to safeguard the long-term sustainability of the Kafubu and other water bodies,โ she said.
The consultations also aimed to identify encroachment hotspots, coordinate interventions, and balance development with environmental protection. Copperbelt Provincial Permanent Secretary Mr. Lazarous Mwanza pledged full support for initiatives that deliver lasting results.
WARMA remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the sustainable management of Zambiaโs finite water resources.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ซ๐๐ฏ๐ข๐๐ฐ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ฌ๐ฉ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ ๐๐๐ง๐๐๐จ๐จ๐ค ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ญ๐ซ๐๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ง ๐๐ง๐๐จ๐ซ๐๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ
Date: 29th August, 2025
In an effort to strengthen compliance with the Water Resources Management Act and related regulations, the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) has embarked on a review of the Inspectorate Handbook and Penalties Guidelines. This important process comes at a time when challenges such as pollution and other illegal activities continue to threaten water security and public health.
The review is aimed at ensuring that inspectors and field teams are equipped with clear procedures, modern tools, and practical best practices that enhance efficiency, transparency, and credibility in enforcing the law. The Penalties Guidelines, in particular, provide a transparent framework that not only deters non-compliance but also promotes fairness, accountability, and responsible water use among all stakeholders.
Speaking at the ongoing review meeting, Acting Director General Mrs. Misozi Ngulube-Lumpa emphasized that this process will refine the handbook and guidelines into practical, effective instruments that support consistent enforcement, fairness, and long-term water security.
She further encouraged inspectors to treat these documents not as reference material, but as guiding tools to be applied in daily operations to strengthen compliance, safeguard water resources, and promote the sustainable management of Zambiaโs water bodies.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ญ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ฑ๐ฉ๐จ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ซ๐ข๐๐ฎ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ฅ๐จ๐๐๐ฅ ๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ฆ๐๐ญ๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง
Date: 14th August, 2025
We are proud to be part of the ongoing 10th Global National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Expo, taking place in Lusaka from 12th to 15th August 2025. This high-level global platform unites experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the world to drive climate adaptation strategies and build resilience in the face of increasing climate risks.
Representing WARMA, ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ป๐ฆ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ก ๐ฟ๐๐ฃ๐ฆ ๐๐ข๐ ๐๐ก๐๐๐ delivered a compelling presentation on integrating climate adaptation into national water management, showcasing the Authorityโs commitment to regulation, water source protection, policy development, tech-driven mapping of eco-sensitive areas, and community-led sustainable governance.
The NAP Expo is a vital forum for sharing innovations, bridging data gaps, and building partnerships that enhance Zambiaโs climate resilience. WARMA fully supports the NAP process as it aligns with our mandate to protect and sustainably manage the nationโs water resources.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ ๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐ฎ๐ฉ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ ๐ง๐ฌ ๐ฉ๐ซ๐ข๐จ๐ซ๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐ฌ๐๐๐จ๐ง๐ ๐ก๐๐ฅ๐ ๐จ๐ ๐๐๐๐
Date: 13th August, 2025
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) is undertaking its Mid-Year Review of the 2025 Work Plan and Budget, a vital process providing an opportunity to reflect, realign strategies, and adjust course to ensure the Authority meets its objectives efficiently and effectively. This review comes at a crucial time as WARMA addresses emerging challenges and shifting priorities in water resources management across Zambia.
Addressing participants, Acting Director General, Mrs. Misozi Ngulube-Lumpa described the review as a strategic checkpoint to assess progress, tackle challenges, and align actions with the Authorityโs 2022โ2026 Strategic Plan.
Key focus areas include strengthening regulations to address rising water pollution from various sources threatening Zambiaโs water resources, improving revenue collection while strictly adhering to budget ceilings, and reinforcing WARMAโs commitment to sustainable and equitable water resources management.
This review is a pivotal step in enhancing accountability, optimizing resource use, and improving service delivery. It reflects WARMAโs ongoing commitment to safeguarding Zambiaโs water resources and advancing sustainable development for the benefit of all Zambians.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ญ ๐๐๐๐๐: ๐๐๐ฏ๐๐ง๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ฆ๐๐ข๐โ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐ ๐ฎ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐
Date: 12th August, 2025
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA), led by Acting Director General Mrs. Misozi Ngulube-Lumpa, participated in the 15th Conference of Contracting Parties (COP15) to the Convention on Wetlands, held in Victoria City, Zimbabwe, from 23rd to 31st July 2025.
COP15 provided WARMA with a valuable platform to hold strategic engagements with key international stakeholders, including:
- ๐ผ๐๐ก๐๐๐๐๐ก๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ก๐๐๐๐๐
- ๐บ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ธ๐๐ฃ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ก๐๐ ๐น๐ข๐๐
- ๐โ๐ ๐๐๐ก๐ข๐๐ ๐ถ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฃ๐๐๐๐ฆ
- ๐ผ๐๐ก๐๐๐๐๐ก๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ต๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ง๐๐ก๐๐๐
The discussions focused on strengthening institutional capacity in water resources protection, wetland conservation and catchment restoration, joint fundraising and partnerships, water resources data management, and combating water pollution. As part of the Zambian delegation, WARMA contributed to key deliberations and resolutions, including the review of the Strategic Plan of the Convention on Wetlands.
Through these engagements, WARMA continues to forge partnerships that will advance sustainable and climate-resilient water resources management in Zambia.
END///
๐๐๐ฒ ๐ ๐๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ฅ๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ญ๐ฌ | ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ซ๐ข๐๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐๐ฅ & ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐๐ซ๐๐ข๐๐ฅ ๐๐ก๐จ๐ฐ
Date: 4th August, 2025
It was a lively and engaging day at the WARMA stand, with members of the public turning up to access our services, make enquiries and learn more about how we are managing and protecting Zambiaโs water resources.
Our Acting Director General, Mrs. Misozi Ngulube-Lumpa, joined by senior management, participated in several media interviews. They addressed important issues affecting water resources including climate change, illegal water use, pollution, and WARMAโs efforts to ensure fair and sustainable water access across the country.
We were also pleased to host our Board Chairperson, Dr. John E.L. Kunda, along with other members of the Board of Directors. Their visit reinforced the importance of leadership support in strengthening WARMAโs work on the ground.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by, asked questions, and shared feedback. We look forward to continuing the water conversation throughout the show.
END///
๐๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ฅ๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฆ ๐๐๐ฒ๐ฌ ๐ & ๐ ๐๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ซ๐ข๐๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐๐ฅ & ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐๐ซ๐๐ข๐๐ฅ ๐๐ก๐จ๐ฐ!
Date; 2nd August, 2025
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) continues to engage the public through media interviews, educational exhibitions, and stakeholder interactions.
We were honoured to host the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, Eng. Romas Kamanga, who toured our stand and interacted with our team on key interventions in water resources management.
Join us as we continue showcasing how WARMA is โAdapting to Climate Changeโ through innovative water governance and public service.
Visit us at the Zambia Hall Annex โ opposite the ZNBC stand.
Show runs until 4th August 2025.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ก ๐๐๐๐ ๐ฅ๐๐๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐ฌ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐จ๐ง ๐ฐ๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ซ๐๐ฌ๐ข๐ฅ๐ข๐๐ง๐๐
Date: 6th July, 2025
From 2nd to 8th July 2025, the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) is proudly participating in the 59th Zambia International Trade Fair in Ndola, under the theme โEnhancing Business Resilience Through Innovation and Trade.โ
WARMAโs presence at this important national event reflects the recognition that water is a critical enabler of business, agriculture, industry, and livelihoods. Our participation provides a platform to engage directly with stakeholders, water users, and the public on key issues of regulation, compliance, conservation, and sustainable water management.
Our exhibition stand is serving as a hub for education, collaboration, and dialogue, empowering water users to be part of the solution in securing Zambiaโs water future.
We believe that resilient water systems are the foundation of resilient businesses. Throughout the fair, we are showcasing our mandate, highlighting ongoing initiatives, and promoting responsible water use through licensing and permitting.
Thank you to everyone visiting our stand and joining the conversation. Together, we can ensure a water-secure Zambia.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ฌ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐ฆ๐๐๐ข๐ ๐จ๐ง ๐ฐ๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐ซ๐๐ฌ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐๐๐ฌ ๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ฐ๐๐ซ๐๐ฌ๐ก๐ข๐ฉ ๐๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐จ๐ง๐ ๐จ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ก ๐๐๐ฆ๐๐ข๐ ๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ง๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ ๐ ๐๐ข๐ซ
Date: 5th July, 2025
As part of its public awareness efforts during the ongoing 59th Zambia International Trade Fair in Ndola, the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) has actively engaged with both radio and television platforms to amplify awareness on key water management issues.
The WARMA team has featured on various media platforms including ZNBC TV1, ZNBC Radio 2, Radio Phoenix, Sky FM, Chimwemwe Radio, YAR FM, and others, sharing important messages on surface and groundwater protection, regulatory compliance, and the importance of obtaining water permits.
These engagements also highlighted how WARMA is leveraging technology and innovation, including digital mapping, automated permit systems and remote monitoring tools, to improve efficiency, transparency and sustainability in water resources management.
Through these media engagements, WARMA continues to educate the public, stakeholders, and water users on the importance of responsible water use, the need to protect water sources from pollution and encroachment, and the vital role every citizen can play in ensuring the sustainable management and preservation of Zambiaโs water resources.
END///
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐ฎ๐๐ฎ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฉ๐๐ง๐ฒ ๐๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐
Date: 5th July, 2025
As part of our engagements during the ongoing 59th Zambia International Trade Fair in Ndola, the Kafue Catchment Manager, Mrs. Alice Nambeye-Nchimunya, accompanied by the Acting Sub-Catchment Manager for Upper Kafue, Eng. Alex Kasonde, and
other WARMA staff, paid a courtesy visit to Kafubu Water and Sanitation Company (KWSC).
The team met with the Managing Director and Finance Director of KWSC to acknowledge both the challen
ges the utility faces and the strides it has made in its efforts to ensure reliable water supply to parts of the Copperbelt Province.
During the meeting, discussions focused on strengthening partnerships in water resour
ces management. Particular emphasis was placed on the need to protect water
sources from pollution and encroachment, in order to safeguard municipal water supply. The team also discussed the importance of ensuring that all water utilities operate with valid WARMA abstraction permits and meet their permit payment obligations.
Water is a shared and finite resource. Its sustainability depends on collaboration, accountability, and full adherence to regulatory requirements. WARMA remains committed to working with all stakeholders to promote safe, equitable, and sustainable water management for the benefit of all Zambians.
END///
WARMA concludes week-long human capital policy review focused on institutional growth
Date: 27 June, 2025
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) has successfully concluded a week-long Human Capital Policy Review held from Monday, 23 June to Friday, 27
June 2025. The review focused on strengthening key internal policies that are essential for effective operations, staff well-being, and the Authorityโs long-term sustainability.
The policies reviewed included transport, wellness and safety, training and development, ICT, and performance management. These frameworks are vital to building a high-performing, well-supported workforce capable of advancing WARMAโs mandate of sustainably managing Zambiaโs water resources.
Speaking when she closed the workshop, WARMA Acting Director Generalย Mrs Misozi Ngulube emphasised that responsible water resources management depends on a well-supported and high-performing workforce. She reaffirmed the Authorityโs commitment to aligning internal policies with its strategic goals to ensure operational excellence and institutional growth.
This initiative aligns with WARMAโs 2022 to 2026 Strategic Plan, which prioritises institutional strengthening and human capital development as key pillars in achieving the organisationโs mission and vision.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all staff and stakeholders who actively contributed to the review process. Together, we continue to build a transparent, responsive, and forward-looking institution.
END///
WARMA LAUNCHES 2022 – 2026 STRATEGIC PLAN
Lusaka, Friday, October 28, 2022
The Water Resources Management Authority has launched its strategic plan. The strategic plan that is anchored on five strategic pillars will be implemented between 2022 to 2026 to achieve the Authority mandate.
Speaking during the launch, Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation Hon Mike Mposha pledged full support to the implementation of the Strategic Plan.
The Minister stated that the Strategic Plan charts out WARMAโs long term strategic goals for carrying out the institutions mission of regulating and managing water resources in Zambia.
The Minister noted the Strategic Plan is anchored on national and international policies and goals, including the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He said the outcomes and targets in this Plan are consistent with national and global targets and goals.
He stated the new dawn government through the able leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema seeks to attain the Vision 2030 objective in the water sector by providing secure access to safe water sources and improved sanitation facilities to all citizens. He added that this, therefore, places the sector among the expenditure priority focus areas for the Government in the planning frameworks.
The Hon. Minister tasked WARMA and other cooperating partners such as World Wildlife Fund for nature (WWF) and GIZ to work in unison by providing government with the technical consultancy on the the encroachment of forest 27. The Minister highlighted that the Issue surrounding the encroachment on the forest is still fresh and new dealt with to ensure tha forest is preserved.
Speaking at the same event, WARMA Board Chairman Dr. John Kunda said the the country is faced with the challenge of wholly protecting the water resource from degradation and the need to use water in a more sustainable manner.
Dr. Kunda mentioned that the Plan is based on an assessment of the risks and vulnerabilities of water resources to the current and future impact of climate change. He said the evidential assesments have continued to provide additional non climate factors such as land use practises, water quality and population demands that can be seen as additional opportunities and challenges to the already stressed water resources.
The Board Chairman Futher called on all key stakeholders to act now in protecting the resource.
And WARMA Director General Engineer Kenneth Nyundu thanked Government for recognising the water Sector as a key driver to social economic development. Eng. Nyundu said the Strategic Plan will assist WARMA to have an in-depth understanding of the expectations of the general public.
Eng. Nyundu noted that through the Plan, the institution will endeavour to strengthen the level of engagement with all stakeholders without exception and assured that public that WARMA shall remain open to constructive engagement to maintain leadership in water resource planning and regulation.
END///
ZAMBIA HEADED FOR A WATER CRISS – WARMA
Lusaka, Thursday, October 25, 2022
Reports have continued to indicate that the water resources in the country are Diminishing at an alarming rate.
An institution in charge of the management of the resource, the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) has indicated in it’s reports that Zambia is at a risk of having a water crisis in the near future due to activities that are negatively affecting the resource.
WARMA has indicated that the institution has continued to record cases indicating that resources are diminishing in most parts of the country such as Lusaka and Southern Province.
This came to light during a special radio interview on Zambezi FM where the institution Public Relations Officer Mubiana Nalwendo highlighted that the Authority is receiving numerous reports of boreholes drying an indication that the ground water table has tremendously dropped.
Mr. Nalwendo Futher highlighted that the diminishing of the resource can also be seen from the drying of many streams that are contributary to rivers such as the Zambezi and Kafue rivers.
He noted that it is worrying that the ground water table has dropped to as low as 120 meters in areas like Lusaka West a situation that cannot be compared to a few years back, when ground water in Lusaka could easily be accessed after drilling about 35-40 meters
WARMA has spoken that it has continued to engage many stakeholders such as Mining industry, the Agriculture sector and the Energy Sectors who are the major users of water in finding ways to avoid compromising the state of the water resource.
The Public Relations Officer added that despite not receiving much support from stakeholders, it is working in ensuring that the resource is preserved for now and the future generation.
He revealed that the institution has therefore consistently sent inspectors on the ground who have been working tirelessly to ensure that the resource is not encroached on by issuing stop orders to those found wanting.
WARMA has therefore continued to emphasize that rules and regulations regarding the management of water resources across the country should be strictly adhered to by all.
END///
REVISED PERMITTING PROCESS PROGRESSIVE – CHIKANKATA FARMERS
Mazabuka, Thursday, October 6, 2022
Farmers in Chikankata District have commended the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) for reducing the water permitting process from the initial 6 months to 2 and half months. The farming community remain positive that the reduced period now allows for efficiency and effectiveness in the managing their affairs as farmers.
One farmer spoken to said farmers across the country have been experiencing challenges in obtaining water permits as the process was taking too long before hence affecting their ability to secure their investments.
Mr. Jesper Lublinkhof who is also Managing Director at Mubuyu farm in Chikankata said the long process was not only time consuming but was a costly loss because it did not allow farmers to proceed with their activities.
“The last time I applied for a water permit it took me about 4 to 6 months before I received the certificate and that delayed my farming activities as I couldn’t proceed without a permit. I am glade that today the process has been shortened to 2.5 months.” He said.
Mr. Lublinkhof expressed his appreciation to WARMA for the swift action taken and listening to the concerns of farmers who requested the process be revised.
And WARMA Board Chairman Dr. John Kunda stated that the Authority is delighted to note that farmers and other water users requiring permits are benefiting from the revised system.
The Board Chairperson explained that the reduction in the permitting time frame is not only beneficial to water users but to the Authority too as it helps WARMA to execute it’s mandate with ease and required speed.
Dr. Kunda assured Mr Lublinkhof that the Authority recognises water users as key stakeholders and their concerns are incorporated in decisions arrived at with the aim of conserving, preserving and managing of the resource. Dr. Kunda further encouraged all water users across the country to always submit their concerns to the Authority whenever need be
END///
WARMA ASSURES CLEAN AND SAFE DRINKING WATER TO SCHOOLS AND HOSPITALS
Mansa, Wednesday, October 5, 2022
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) is currently carrying out ground water quality assessments in schools and clinics across the country.
The exercise is aimed at providing clean and safe drinking water to citizens especially children and the sick in hospitals.
This came to light when WARMA Director General Engineer Kenneth Nyundu appeared on KFM Radio station in Mansa Luapula Province.
Engineer Nyundu stated that his institution is working round the clock with empirical information to make sure public schools and hospitals are not exposed to contaminated water.
WARMA Director General Eng. Kenneth Nyundu has further assured water users that the WARMA is in existence with the aim of safeguarding the interests of the public. Eng. Nyundu stated that it is imperative that members of the public understand that the huge mandate of WARMA is centered around enhanced water security for Zambia.
The Director General pointed out that the Authority is consistently working to ensure that all standards are met and the right criteria is used in the management of the resource according to the ambient water quality standard.
He has noted that WARMA being a public institution will work to ensure that the interests of Zambians of having abundant water is safeguarded through regulating the finite resource.
He noted that benchmarking of WARMA’s performance against external criteria will help members of the public to monitor the Authority and the institution will be able to gauge its own performance in the management of the water resource.
Eng. Nyundu added that the mandate of WARMA is not there to frustrate water users, but itโs mandate is helping safeguard the future of the country.
END////
ZAMBIA COMMEMORATES WORLD RIVERS DAY
Lusaka, Monday, September 26, 2022.
Zambia has joined the rest of the world in commemorating the World Rivers Day a day that is celebrated world over since 2005.
The commemoration which is being held right at the source of the Zambezi River in Ikelengi District of North-western Province, has kicked off attracting many stakeholders in the water sector who are putting a spotlight on the importance of protecting and managing rivers.
Speaking at the event Minister of Water Development and Sanitation Mike Mposha has implored all citizens to properly manage rivers as he states that rivers provide water for trees and plants where we derive food, medicine and shelter for the livelihood of humanity
In a Speech read on his behalf by Ikelengi district Member of Parliament Hon. Elijah Muchima, the minister states Zambezi is an international river that must be conserved as it has about 6 countries that directly depend on it as Anything that happens to Zambezi affects these countries too.
The hon. minister says his ministry has been making frantic efforts in ensuring that the source of the Zambezi River is properly managed and given the much recognition it deserves. He adds that the ministry is also planning to put up dams around the area to avert people from drilling borrows that might affect the source of the Zambezi River
He says the ministry is doing all this because Government has placed premium on stakeholder collaboration on the agenda of protecting water resources and environments for the benefit of the all Zambians
โโThe Zambezi River is a backbone of systems that contribute to the socio-economic development of our country. The river supports two big hydro power production that help power the nation. The Victoria falls also is located on the Zambezi River which is the 7th wonder of the world and is the largest tourism attraction in the country.โโ
Hon. Mposha says the Zambezi River supports over 1.5million people through fishing, irrigation, recreation and more therefore every well-meaning Zambian ought to ensure that the Zambezi River is well protected from the source.
The minister who bemoaned the encroachment of river banks states the Poor water management along river banks has contributed to pollution of river systems and hence glowed to extinction of some aquatic species hence leading to loss of biodiversity. Climate change has a very negative impact on the land and forests.
In addition, he assured citizens that the ministry is committed to conserving the Zambezi River source and called on local residents to guard the river source and water resources jealously.
Speaking at the same event, Her Royal Highness Chieftainess Ikelenge Muhemba II states Zambia is recognized because of the Zambezi River. She says that the chiefdom is hence worried because the world is recognizing the Victoria falls much more than the source of that water.
The Chieftainess has since called upon the New Dawn Government to ensure that the source of the Zambezi River is not neglected like it reported to have been the case in the past years.
Chieftainess Ikelenge Muhemba II states the chiefdom is concerned about the shallow wells that residents are puncturing right at the source of the Zambezi which are posing a serious threat to the source of the Zambezi River. She added that the residents are engaging in such activities because people do not have adequate water systems.
Still at the same event, Ministry of Tourism Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga states the protection of the Zambezi River has come under threat from many factors in the recent decades, these factors have reduced forest cover and water depth in dander with the effects of climate change
The Permanent Secretary states the theme of the world tourism and world rivers day resonate very well with restoration of ecosystem, the need for effective management of the water resources to enhance the sustainability of the ecosystem around the source of Zambezi and beyond.
He mentions that Zambia has a responsibility to protect the source of the Zambezi because it supports various forms of life along the river system and much more to develop the source of the Zambezi and diversify the product portfolio so that tourists might find all amenities that are required.
ENDS///
AMNESTY ON ILLEGAL WATER USE EXTENDED FOR ANOTHER SIXTY DAYS
Lusaka, Wednesday, September 21, 2022.
Government through the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation has extended the amnesty period on illegal water usage to sixty days. Minister of water development and sanitation Honourable Mike Mposha has announced.
Speaking at a press conference in Lusaka, the Honourable Minister stated that the amnesty extension has been necessitated by demand from commercial water users and members of the public.
The Minister added that the aim of the extension is to give an opportunity to all commercial water users to visit WARMA offices in their respective localities and have their water permits rectified.
โโWater has an economic and social value whose aspects are always reflected in its use. The water sector has therefore been immensely affected due to various illegalities being committed by some water users across the country. In order to curb this vice, my ministry is once more engaging WARMA an institution that is tasked to manage the water resource in the country to once again ensure it comes up with ways of ensuring that all water illegalities are dealt with within the confines of the law.โโ He spoke.
Setting the 21st of September 2022 as the beginning of the extension period, Hon. Mposha says he hopes that all commercial water users will correct their water permits which in turn will help in the economic development of the country at large.
He said that water plays an important role in the growth of any economy and with its economic value, water resources have a significant administrative cost element which are always reflected in the permit charges for commercial purposes.
Hon. Mposha further commended WARMA for successfully forming a Water Committee with the Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) in line with the aspirations of the ministry on enhancing stakeholder engagements with key players. He added that stakeholder engagements are important because the management of Zambiaโs water resources demand a multi-sectoral approach.
Meanwhile, WARMA Director General Engineer Kenneth Nyundu has welcomed the move stating that the extension will help the Authority cover all water users who might have not had the chance to normalise their water utilisation. Eng. Nyundu has assured Government that WARMA will be proactive by visiting commercial water users to ensure they have normalised their usage of water.
The Direct General added that the extension is an opportunity for WARMA to upgrade its data base which in turn will help in providing data during the allocation of water. He clarified that individual that will not seize the sixty days extension window will have themselves to blame when punitive measures are applied.
On 11 May 2022, the Ministry gave a 90-day Amnesty to illegal water users to rectify their permits with the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA).
On the 9th August, the Amnesty period came to an end attracting a total number of One Hundred and Eighty (180) water users who rectified their illegal water permits with WARMA. Out of the total, One Hundred and Six (106) of them had surface water permit issues and Seventy-Four (74) water users corrected their groundwater permit issues.
Ends///
KAMFINSA WATER POLLUTION INCIDENCE
Thursday, February 17, 2022
The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) was actively involved in investigating the possible chemical contamination of water on Kamfinsa Stream as a result of the road traffic accident at Kamfinsa bridge, on the Ndola/Kitwe dual carriageway of the Copperbelt Province. This happened on 17th February, 2022. WARMAโs findings revealed that a truck laden with Sodium Hydroxide, plunged into Kamfinsa stream at Kamfinsa bridge, posing a risk of water contamination that may compromise the ability of the stream to support human and aquatic life.
Sodium hydroxide is a white crystalline material that readily absorbs moisture and dissolves in water and is highly corrosive. After taking water samples upstream and downstream of the accident scene, the findings were that the contamination was localized around the accident scene. The public was therefore advised to avoid using the raw water or indeed do any recreational activities along the Kamfinsa stream, at the accident scene or downstream within the vicinity. Furthermore, the Authority had established that the flood mark level at the Kamfinsa bridge was of higher elevation than the design height of the bridge. It was therefore anticipated that any further increase in rainfall activity would result in stream overflow above the bridge. Motorists using the Ndola/Kitwe Road were advised to take precautions at all times when approaching Kamfinsa bridge when it was raining.