The Department of Water Resources Development will be carrying out maintenance works across five dams in Chisamba District to preserve their structural integrity and ensure long-term water security for local communities.
Water Engineering Assistant Reagan Mphande says the maintenance of the dams is meant to prolong their lifespan so that they continue to serve their purpose to the surrounding communities.
Speaking in an interview with the media in Chisamba, Mr Mphande stated that the maintenance works will begin as soon as the logistics are in place.
“We have been privileged as a district that we maintain at least five dams for a start, that is Nkandela dam in Liteta ward, Chilomba and Chikonkoto dams in Chamuka ward, Lifwambula dam in Munthenga ward, and Buyandile dam in Muswishi ward,” Mr. Mphande said.
He noted that the dams offer several key benefits, including securing water for domestic use, livestock, irrigation, and aquaculture, while also aiding in groundwater recharge.
“The purpose of the dams is to embank some water so they have enough even after the rainy season. Water from the dams can be used for livestock, aquaculture and gardening,” he added.
Mr Mphande said community committees are already in place to mobilize members who will carry out maintenance works on the dams.
He said the government procured tools that are now stationed at various dam sites ahead of maintenance work.
Mr Mphande said the maintenance works will involve vegetation control, minor rehabilitation, and the cleaning of the embankment and spillway.
Other works will focus on leveling termite mounds, patching minor defects on the dams, and clearing tree stumps from the embankment slopes.
