Vice President assures Lundazi flood victims of continued support

Vice President assures Lundazi flood victims of continued support

Vice President Dr. W.K. Mutale-Nalumango has assured flood-affected communities in Lundazi District that she will return to the area in February, reaffirming government commitment to sustained support following recent flooding that displaced several families.

Dr. Mutale-Nalumango made the pledge after touring flood-impacted areas, including Mphamba Bridge, before proceeding to Vigodo Ground, where she addressed displaced residents and observed ongoing emergency response efforts.

During the visit, the Vice President described the evacuation of residents as a moment of responsibility and shared humanity, noting that ordinary citizens who depend on national resources must be protected when disasters strike.

She said emergency teams prioritised evacuating families from high-risk zones and relocating them to safer locations identified by the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU), whose personnel she commended for working on the ground under difficult conditions.

The Vice President said leadership during natural disasters requires decisive action guided by compassion, adding that the response in Lundazi reflects the governance approach of President Hakainde Hichilema, which places dignity, safety, and the well-being of citizens at the centre of public service.

The visit follows earlier reports of flooding in Lundazi, where heavy and sustained rainfall caused water levels to rise, threatening homes, infrastructure, and access routes. Authorities moved in to stabilise the situation through evacuation, temporary shelter, and monitoring of affected areas.

Significantly, the flood response in Lundazi has seen cooperation across political lines. Lundazi Member of Parliament Brenda Nyirenda, an opposition lawmaker, has also been actively involved in response efforts, setting aside political considerations to focus on the humanitarian needs of affected residents.

Ms. Nyirenda toured the water treatment plant in the district to assess its condition and operational capacity amid flooding concerns, highlighting the importance of safeguarding water supply and public health during emergencies.

Local officials said the MP’s engagement formed part of broader efforts to ensure that essential services remain functional despite the impact of floods, particularly in communities where infrastructure is vulnerable.

The Vice President acknowledged the role of local leadership and Members of Parliament in responding to the crisis, noting that effective disaster management depends on cooperation between central government, local authorities, and community representatives.

Dr. Mutale-Nalumango said her planned return to Lundazi in February would allow government to review progress made, assess remaining challenges, and consider longer-term measures to reduce flood risk in the district.

She urged residents in flood-prone areas to continue cooperating with authorities and to heed safety advisories, emphasising that early evacuation remains one of the most effective ways to prevent loss of life.

The Vice President said government would continue working with the DMMU, local councils, and elected leaders to monitor conditions and provide support to displaced families as recovery efforts continue.