Ministry warns against rising vandalism of water infrastructure

The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation has expressed concern over the increasing incidents of vandalism targeting Kafubu Water and Sanitation Limited infrastructure.

Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, highlighted that theft of steel manhole covers, water meters, puncturing of water and sewer lines and removal of critical electrical components have severely impacted water supply and sanitation services.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Friday, Nzovu emphasized government’s significant investment in Commercial Utilities to provide clean water and improved sanitation.

However, he warned that acts of vandalism were undermining these efforts, negatively affecting communities.

“Vandalizing or stealing water and sanitation infrastructure is a serious offence under our laws,” Nzovu stressed.

He noted that such illegal activities not only threaten essential services but also endanger public well-being, as outlined in the Penal Code.

Nzovu revealed that four individuals were recently convicted and sentenced to five years in prison for vandalizing a sewer network pipe in Luanshya.

“Vandalism of water and sewer infrastructure is a crime under Section 34 ID (I)(2)(c)(e) of the Penal Code (Amendment) No. 17 of the Laws of Zambia,” he explained.

Nzovu urged perpetrators to stop these acts, which drain public resources. He also cautioned scrap metal dealers against purchasing stolen property, as this perpetuates vandalism and theft.

“This issue extends beyond Kafubu Water and Sanitation Limited. Other water utilities across the country face similar challenges,” Nzovu added.

He called on the public to remain vigilant and report any acts of vandalism or theft involving Kafubu Water and Sanitation Limited, or other utilities, to the Zambia Police.

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