By TROY MUKUPA
Wamulume Mutema, the aspiring candidate for councilor in Mwembeshi Ward 31, has highlighted the chronic water supply issues plaguing the area, particularly in Zingalume. Despite the presence of three large storage tanks with a combined capacity of over 90,000 liters, managed by Lusaka Water and Sanitation Company, residents continue to face serious disruptions.
According to Mutema, the ward has historically relied on drawing water from shallow wells, a situation that persists to this day. To address this challenge, Mutema proposes creating a partnership between the Lusaka City Council and Lusaka Water to utilize Constituency Development Fund (CDF) resources. The plan includes procuring additional pumps, solar panels, rehabilitating existing infrastructure, and laying new pipes to connect all households to the supply line.
Mutema’s water master plan would allocate at least K1.5 million annually from CDF to tackle water supply and sanitation issues, totaling over K7.5 million in five years. He emphasizes that this initiative would cater to all unserviced areas, including Madimba, Meanwood, Barlastone Police Area, Government Farms, and Chinika.
The candidate believes that drilling community boreholes is not a suitable solution for urban areas like Mwembeshi Ward 31 and instead advocates for a comprehensive approach to resolve the water crisis once and for all.