Fresh Water, Fresh Start

Installation of communal taps and sanitation facilities marks a turning point for Kanyama.

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia24, (October 23, 2025) – Residents of Kanyama are celebrating a fresh start as the government transforms their township through a series of Constituency Development Fund (CDF)-financed projects that have significantly improved access to clean water, sanitation, and public infrastructure.

The installation of six new communal taps, along with the construction of garbage bays and a community hall, marks a turning point for the township—bringing convenience, improved health, and a strengthened sense of community to its residents.

The projects, officially commissioned this week, include six communal water kiosks valued at K598,396, and two garbage bays at Misisi Market and Michael Chilufya Sata Market, costing K180,000 and K167,580 respectively.

A newly constructed community hall was also handed over to residents to serve as a hub for civic engagement, leadership dialogue, and community meetings.

Speaking on behalf of the District Commissioner, Rosa Zulu, District Works Supervisor Cosmas Siwale commended the people of Kanyama for actively participating in identifying and implementing projects that address their most pressing needs.

He emphasized that the achievements reflect the voices and efforts of ordinary residents who translated their priorities into tangible results.

“The newly constructed community hall will serve as a vital hub for civic engagement, promoting unity and accountability at the local level,” Mr. Siwale said.

“The six communal taps will ease the long-standing challenge of accessing clean water, especially for women who have been walking long distances to fetch it. Access to clean and safe drinking water is a human right and a basic health requirement. This project shows that the government is listening and acting on the needs of the people.”

He further highlighted that the construction of garbage bays at Misisi and Michael Chilufya Sata markets will address Kanyama’s waste management challenges and improve sanitation, preventing outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera.

 Residents were urged to maintain the facilities responsibly and protect them from vandalism.

District Commissioner Rosa Zulu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life in Kanyama and other parts of Lusaka District.

She praised residents for embracing the vision of community-driven growth and emphasized that the CDF empowers communities to take charge of their own development.

The newly commissioned projects are expected to improve sanitation, reduce waterborne diseases, promote civic engagement, and enhance the overall well-being of Kanyama residents—demonstrating that the CDF remains a powerful tool for community-led development in Zambia.

Representing the area Member of Parliament, Bridget Banda, said the projects align with the government’s decentralization policy and President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision of taking resources closer to the people.

She noted that CDF allocations for Kanyama had increased from K1.6 million to K36.1 million, reflecting the government’s commitment to empowering communities to implement their own priorities.

Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company (LWSC) Managing Director Eng. Jili Chiyombwe highlighted the importance of clean water and sanitation for public health and social progress.

“The addition of six new kiosks brings the total in Kanyama to 24, marking a significant milestone in expanding access to clean water,” he said, adding that LWSC plans to transition households to individual connections for greater convenience and health benefits.

CDF Vice Chairperson Bernard Chitumbo called on residents to protect public resources, ensure inclusivity in staffing new facilities, and take advantage of empowerment programs.

“Development should benefit the people who live here. We want to see jobs, opportunities, and empowerment arising from CDF projects,” he said.