Clean water challenges in Western Zambia
Clean water remains out of reach for many Zambians, especially in Western Zambia today.
Living close but still without
Communities in Western Zambia live only a few kilometres from the Zambezi River, yet access to clean drinking water is still limited. Families, often women and children, walk three to four kilometres to the river, exposing themselves to risks along the floodplains. Crocodiles, hippos and other wild animals pose dangers, while mosquitoes thrive in the wetlands, heightening the threat of malaria. Fetching untreated water directly from the river further exposes households to waterborne diseases, underlining the urgency of finding safe and sustainable alternatives.
Solutions through boreholes and technology
One of the most practical solutions is the drilling of boreholes equipped with hand pumps or solar-powered systems. Boreholes reduce reliance on unsafe river water and bring clean drinking water closer to villages. Filtration and purification technologies can further strengthen water quality. Community-based water committees and training can ensure boreholes are maintained, creating local ownership and longer-term sustainability. The upfront investment may be significant, but the payoff in health outcomes and productivity is considerable.
Managing the floodplains better
The Zambezi floodplains are both a challenge and an opportunity. Seasonal flooding supports fertile soils and fish stocks but makes infrastructure development difficult. With improved planning, flood management systems such as raised borehole platforms, small dikes and proper drainage can reduce risks. Harnessing the floodplains sustainably would allow communities to farm, fish and live more securely without facing constant health and safety threats.
Investment opportunities
Investors have a role to play in transforming this challenge into an opportunity. Water infrastructure projects, solar-powered pumping systems and small-scale treatment facilities can be developed in partnership with government and NGOs. There are also opportunities in logistics and technology solutions that improve water storage and distribution. With Zambia's growing population and demand for resilient infrastructure, investment in clean water access is both socially impactful and financially viable. Ensuring communities in Western Zambia gain safe access to clean water is not just a humanitarian imperative, it is a strategic investment in the region's long-term stability and economic growth.
Image: Boreholes in the floodplains of the Zambezi have a significant impact on the local communities in the area. Image credit: Leon Louw for WhyAfrica
Clean water challenges in Western Zambia