Government Constructing Dams for Water Harvesting

Following calls by President Hakainde Hichilema for the adoption of water harvesting methods, Green Economy and Environment Minister Collins Nzovu has confirmed government plans to support water harvesting through dam construction and rehabilitation are progressing well.

Water harvesting can contribute to significant increases in agricultural output among smallholder farmers, with some reports suggesting that yields can be increased from 1t/ha to 3 or even 4t/ha. As a result, the United Nations is among those to recommend that countries facing water shortages due to climate change adopt the practice.

Speaking with ZNBC the minister confirmed that government has released funds to begin rehabilitating dams and that 15 contractors have applied to participate in the construction of dams meant for water harvesting, as well as Zambia National Service undertaking some of the works.

“We believe that water harvesting through dam construction is one key thing we have to do,” he told ZNBC.

The minister said the even the incomplete dams which were abandoned during the PF government due to lack of funding are being revived and that contractors will be reengaged to bring these projects to completion.

The government hopes to make significant progress with the water harvesting project by the end of 2024.