Government plans measures to conserve groundwater amid depletion risks

The government has announced plans to implement measures for the conservation of groundwater resources following indications from the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) of a high risk of groundwater depletion in parts of Lusaka and other areas in the coming months.

Water Development and Sanitation Minister, Collins Nzovu, confirmed WARMA’s warning, adding that the most affected regions included Western, Southern, Lusaka, parts of Eastern and Central Provinces, as monitored by 77 boreholes across the country.

Addressing the speaker in Lusaka on Thursday, Nzovu emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the shortages of both groundwater and surface water.

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“The Ministry will enhance the implementation of catchment protection and restoration measures around our rivers, lakes, and dams to build resilience against climate change,” he said.

He further announced plans for a countrywide mapping of groundwater aquifers and the adoption and implementation of rainwater harvesting to recharge groundwater.

“My Ministry will expand the hydrogeological network to improve information collection and management and protect eco-sensitive groundwater areas by declaring them as Water Resources Protection Areas (WRPAs),” he stated.

Nzovu also mentioned that the Ministry would promote the drilling of communal boreholes for domestic water supply.

He called on the public to join efforts in the conservation and protection of groundwater resources through the practice of water conservation measures and minimizing wastage.

“The public is urged to desist from building or erecting structures in groundwater recharge zones and ecologically sensitive areas to ensure sustainable utilization of groundwater resources in Zambia,” he urged.

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