By Cecilia Chiluba 
Government has taken urgent action to provide clean and safe water to communities in Kanchibiya District, following recent contamination of the Kanchibiya and Lwitikila Rivers due to upstream mining activities.
In a statement, Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Eng. Collins Nzovu, disclosed that the Ministry recently approved and disbursed K1,010,991.00 to the Muchinga Provincial Administration for the drilling of 12 boreholes in the affected areas.
The funds, disbursed on 14th August 2025, are aimed at mitigating the impact of the river contamination and ensuring that communities have access to safe drinking water while long-term environmental and regulatory measures are being implemented.
“This swift response underscores Government’s commitment to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our citizens. Access to clean and safe water is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of public health, education, and sustainable livelihoods,” Eng. Nzovu said.
He noted that significant progress has already been made in the implementation of the emergency water supply project, stating that geophysical investigations for all 12 boreholes were completed between 26th and 31st August 2025.
Eng. Nzovu also said pocurement of construction materials began on 19th August 2025 and is currently under review by the Provincial Administration’s Procurement and Supplies Unit.
He added that drilling of the boreholes is scheduled to start on 15th September 2025, while equipping the and associated civil works will begin on 29th September 2025, with full completion of the project, including equipping, targeted for 30th October 2025.
“While this immediate intervention will provide much-needed relief, Government is equally committed to pursuing long-term solutions.
These includes holding polluters accountable by enforcing environmental regulations without compromise, and stopping illegal mining activities.”
“Others are; strengthening monitoring systems to prevent future contamination of vital water sources, investing in sustainable water infrastructure and exploring measures to rehabilitate affected rivers and ecosystems, and engaging communities to raise awareness and build resilience against environmental risks,” he
Eng.Nzovu assured that Government, in collaboration with regulators, communities, and all stakeholders, will ensure that this unfortunate incident strengthens its collective resolve to protect Zambia’s natural resources.
News Desk 
Lucky Chama