Government Commits K5 Billion to 60 Dams in Drive for Water Security

The Government is investing five billion kwacha in the construction and rehabilitation of 60 dams in drought-prone areas across Zambia, in a programme designed to strengthen the country's water security and shield it from future drought shocks.

Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation Principal Public Relations Officer Prince Chiyuni said in a statement that the programme is targeting five drought-prone provinces, with nine dams already under construction in Eastern and Southern Provinces.

Mr Chiyuni said that once complete, the dams would support irrigation, livestock, fisheries, domestic water supply and industrial activity.

He added that the Government is also equipping District Water Development Offices, including the provision of nine motorcycles, to ensure the new infrastructure is properly monitored and maintained.