Zambia Consumer Association (ZACA) has called for swift, coordinated, and visible action from all relevant authorities to safeguard lives and livelihoods following the recent heavy rains that have affected many parts of Lusaka.
Association Executive Director, Juba Sakala, said the destruction of infrastructure, flooding of residential areas, and weakening of ZESCO poles pose serious risks to consumer safety, public health, and economic stability.
Mr. Sakala cited cholera-prone communities, including Kanyama Township, where flooding significantly increases the risk of water contamination and disease outbreaks.
“As a country that has previously experienced painful cholera outbreaks, we cannot afford to be reactive — we must be proactive. ZACA urges Government, through the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU), to intensify on-the-ground interventions,” he emphasized.
“These should include immediate distribution of chlorine and other water treatment chemicals, deployment of water bowsers to supply safe and clean drinking water, rapid drainage clearance and waste removal in affected communities.”
He added that the interventions should also include structural assessment of weakened ZESCO poles to prevent electrocution risks, and heightened public health sensitization campaigns in communities and schools.
Mr. Sakala further urged restaurants and food outlets in the Central Business District (CBD) to strictly adhere to food safety and hygiene standards.
He noted that flood-related contamination can easily compromise water sources used for food preparation, placing consumers at serious risk.
“ZACA also urges all citizens to remain alert, boil drinking water where possible, avoid contact with stagnant flood water, and report any suspected disease outbreaks or hazardous infrastructure to relevant authorities immediately,” Mr. Sakala said.
The ZACA Executive Director stressed that consumer protection is not only about prices — but about safety, health, and dignity.
“We expect swift, coordinated, and visible action from all relevant authorities to safeguard lives and livelihoods. ZACA stands ready to collaborate in public sensitization efforts to ensure that no consumer is left vulnerable during this critical period,” he added.
