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Government has officially launched the reconstruction of Lundazi Dam and the construction of nine additional dams in Eastern and Southern Provinces under the flagship 60 Dams Project.
Out-going Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu said the decisions followed the devastating floods of December, 30, 2025, which caused severe damage to Lundazi Dam infrastructure.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Friday, Nzovu said the floods, triggered by prolonged and intense rainfall in the Lundazi River catchment, breached the dam wall, destroyed the raw water intake system, and submerged the water treatment plant.
He said the disaster disrupted water supply services to more than 40,000 residents, representing approximately 4,100 customer connections, creating a major public health and humanitarian challenge for the district.
“In response to the crisis, Government swiftly implemented emergency interventions through the water utility company to partially restore water supply while preparations for a permanent solution were undertaken,” Nzovu said.
He stated that recognising the urgent need for resilient and sustainable infrastructure, the Government moved decisively to commence the reconstruction of Lundazi Dam.
Nzovu expressed satisfaction that the contractor for the reconstruction works had been successfully engaged and that works had since commenced.
“The reconstruction project, valued at approximately K67 million, will incorporate modern, climate-resilient, and flood-resistant engineering standards designed to withstand future extreme weather events and ensure long-term sustainability of the infrastructure,” he said.
Nzovu further noted that construction of the coffer dam had already been completed, securing water supply for the people of Lundazi even as the main reconstruction works continue.
He said upon completion, the project was expected to restore uninterrupted 24-hour water supply to the people of Lundazi District and significantly strengthen water security for the growing population.
The Minister emphasised that the reconstruction went beyond replacing damaged infrastructure and reflected Government’s commitment to “building back better” through stronger, smarter, and more resilient public infrastructure capable of responding to the increasing impacts of climate change.
He further stated that the project would improve public health, stimulate economic activity, enhance livelihoods, and restore dignity to thousands of residents who depend on safe and reliable water services.
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In addition to the Lundazi Dam reconstruction, Government has also launched the construction of nine dams in drought-prone districts across Eastern and Southern Provinces.
The six dams to be constructed in Eastern Province are Kalambakuwa Dam in Nyimba District, Mumbi Dam in Petauke District, Chilulu Dam in Sinda District, Kanyanja Dam in Chipata District, Lumezi Dam in Lumezi District and Mphala Hill Dam in Chama District.
Nzovu said the remaining three dams would be constructed in Chirundu, Gwembe, and Choma Districts in Southern Province.
“The nine-dam initiative, valued at over 958 million, is expected to benefit more than 130,000 citizens and significantly improve water availability in drought-prone communities,” Nzovu said.
He said all nine dams would include downstream irrigation and water supply infrastructure to ensure they effectively enhance water security, drive socio-economic development, and improve livelihoods..
“These include Kafulafuta Dam in Masaiti District, Kawawa Dam in Kasenengwa District, Muyembe Dam in Kawambwa District, Jongolo Dam in Kalomo District, Chuundwe Dam in Zimba District, and Kapekesa Dam in Chasefu District,” Nzovu said.
Others are the Siakalinda Dam in Siavonga District, Hajamba Dam in Pemba District, Chileya Dam in Kazungula District, and Shikezhi Dam in Kalumbila District.
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