Health alert in Kabwe as government warns residents against contaminated tap water

The government has cautioned residents of Kabwe’s Zambia Railways Compound against consuming tap water supplied by Lukanga Water and Sewerage Company (LgWSC), after investigations confirmed contamination linked to a damaged water system.

The contamination was first reported on September [insert date], 2025, through the LgWSC customer service office.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Tuesday, Water Development and Sanitation Minister, Collins Nzovu, advised residents to avoid drinking tap water until further notice.

Nzovu said immediate corrective measures were taken following the reports, even though the exact source of contamination has not yet been established.

“Technical teams are actively inspecting the network, with initial findings suggesting possible damage to sections of the water system. Investigations are still ongoing,” he said.

He explained that urgent safety interventions had been rolled out, including increasing chlorine levels at the Highridge Plant, systematic flushing of the network, and installation of in-line dosing points to strengthen water treatment in the affected area.

“Safe and clean drinking water is being delivered directly to households through water bowsers, with regular updates communicated via community announcements and door-to-door outreach,” Nzovu added.

He further disclosed that LgWSC is working with health facilities in Kabwe to monitor suspected cases of diarrhoeal illness potentially linked to the incident.

“The Ministry assures the residents of Kabwe that their health and safety remain a top priority. Continuous water quality testing is underway, and further updates will be provided until the situation is fully resolved,” Nzovu said.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring every household has access to a safe and reliable water supply.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.