JOURNEY OF WATER ZAMBIA

Water doesn't come from a Tap - Day 1 of JoW

 

23 June 2017

23 June 2017

After months of preparation, anticipation (and nervousness) 21st June 2017 saw the first day of our Journey of Water campaign. To kick things off, our water champions enjoyed an exhilarating and engaging dinner graced by Bishop Dr. Ed Chomba, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection.

 

Dawn came too soon the following day. The Kafue District Commissioner was on hand to flag off the beginning of the journey. He handed a symbolic container over to us which will carry water from the Kafue River to Lusaka. “Kafue is the home of the Kafue River, and we are glad that the journey has started here.” – Mr John Kamana, Kafue District Commissioner. The journey started with a 2km walk through gravel road, past a recreational dam to the scenic Chita Lodge Marina. When we got to the marina, (with many needing to catch their breath) we all took in the beauty that is the Kafue River, and the purpose of the journey resonated with us. Imakando Sinyana from our freshwater programme set the tone for the day, talking us through WWF’s water stewardship work with key businesses operating on the Kafue Flats. Legendary song-bird Maureen Lilanda who is one of the water champions said it was astonishing how under-appreciated water is as a resource.

 

We hopped onto our boat for the first leg of the boat trip to Njanji bridge where the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) and Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC) personnel spoke to our Water Champions about water quality, quantity and some of the issues that threaten water security for people and nature. Our Water Champions engaged in discussions and saw first-hand how water is tested for PH levels. A stopover at Kasaka hydrometric gauging station helped us understand just how important monitoring is, for we cannot manage what we do not know. After a very scientific morning we took a pit stop back on “land” and had some healthy snacks, courtesy of JoW partners -Food Lovers Market.

 

Our break was short-lived as we quickly had to put back our life jackets and keep exploring the wonderful Kafue River. The boat navigated under the iconic Kafue Bridge and through some power utility pylons that transmit power from the Kafue Gorge Dam. We rode past the LWSC’s main abstraction point for water that goes to Lusaka City, learning that the current structure transports approximately 90 million litres a day to Lusaka. Just before lunch, our fine lady (the Lady Betty boat) slowed down at the proposed project site for the soon to be built Kafue River and Rowing Centre, an ongoing project between WWF Zambia, World Rowing and UNESCO-IHE.

 

Lunch was welcomed rumbling tummies as it had been quite a long morning with many facts and figures learnt! The inevitable post-lunch dip nearly had us crying out for a siesta but we trudged along, clueless about the energy that awaited us at our next stop – Kafue Boys Secondary School! At the school, our Water Champions were welcomed with great enthusiasm and the students were reminded of the role they can each play and be water champions in their own right.

 

We had a de facto rowing championship with some of the students trying out the new machines. After much banter and great interaction with the students, the two rowing ergs which were donated by FISA were presented to the school as a show of commitment to the school’s involvement in the Kafue River and Rowing Centre. “We value your contribution to water conservation as young people” – Imakando Sinyama, WWF Zambia. To end our time at the school, a challenge was set to find the fastest rower. 2 different students from the school joined a WWF staff member. Embarrassed to say that both students won! Safe to say day 1 ended on a very high note! Exhausted but exhilarated we headed back to base camp in preparation for Day 2.

Water is Industries, Communities - Day 2 of JoW

 

 

29 June 2017

Our second day of the JoW walk started bright and early. Our major themes for the day were #waterisindustries and #waterislivlelihoods, effectively taking our #waterchampions to discover how water affects business, industries and communities. To start, our champions were guided on how important healthy wetlands are for food, culture, industry and nature urging them to “look at river tributaries as the human body and water as the blood” that drives ecosystems.

Our first stop was the Lusaka Water and Sewerage (LWSC) Illoaunda pump house where water extraction and distribution takes place. The #waterchampions learnt that there is a total of four pumps used in the distribution process, three that work continuously while the fourth is available for times when water levels are extremely low. Our friends from LSWC explained that by law (WARMA act) in response to climate change or impacts from industry, treated water is first distributed primarily for drinking as this is priority.

Our next stop was Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia (NCZ) plant where we learnt the important role water plays in the day-to-day activities of NCZ which include the production of fertilizer among other products for industrial use. We were informed that NCZ gets their water directly from LWSC to the plant where it undergoes several processes of purification before they add it to the creation of fertilizer. A key process that it goes through is demineralization which takes place in a boiler and removes minerals and impurities from the water.

We were then led through a guided tour of the purification boilers. Our champions were curious as to how the chemical plant disposes off waste considering that the plant accumulates a fair amount of it. We were talked through how engineers at NCZ ensure careful disposal of all waste giving special care that nothing affects the river.

After that we took a 3km walk to the Kafue River Mall where we had a set up for the local people to be able to interact with the champions. A drumming group kept the energy levels high and mesmerised the crowd (water is entertainment?) while the champions mingled with onlookers, spreading the message of the campaign. The locals were ecstatic to meet some household names.

After lunch, we headed to our last stop for the day which was at Mapepe School where we were welcomed by our hosts, a group of excited and curious students. The #WaterChampions were split into four groups and mixed with the children for some fun, educational activities.

We got to learn directly from them about the problems they face with water. The community has three pumps and a tap, far below what is needed for their water requirements. We were moved by the story of a young woman who narrated how extremely difficult it can be to find the 5 Kwacha (about $0.5) monthly fee they pay to pump water into their containers. The pumps are open as early as 6 am and close by or before 5 pm which makes it a challenge if you need water outside of those times.

After a long and demanding day, we headed to our accommodation for some much-needed rest and dinner.

Water is Everybody's Business - Day 3 of JoW

11 July 2017

After two days of non-stop engagement, you would be forgiven for thinking our #waterchampions were completely worn out come the final day of the walk, but these guys had energy like you have never seen before!

Our first stop on Day3 was Kudu Farm, one of the largest emerging commercial farms in Zambia, to understand the immeasurable value of water in Agriculture. A rep from the farm took us through their water supply process, where they source the commodity and how pivotal irrigation is in determining crop yields for the farm. We were given an opportunity to tour (and marvel) at the green fields of wheat (which is the main crop grown). We learnt that wheat is such a water-intensive crop that the farm installed an irrigation machine that dispenses water at 55 litres per second! The rep informed us that the farm has seen many changes in the past 20 years in its water levels; highlighting increasing difficulties in accessing water. Our champions were told that before, one had to drill only 6 meters into the ground to find water on the farm, whereas now they have to drill up to 40 meters to access the first drop.

After lunch the #WaterChampions were going live on social media talking about their experiences so far and inviting their followers to the final walk that was going to take place later in the day.

Our next stop was Misisi compound in Lusaka, where we went to learn more about how communities access water. We were given a tour of some water kiosks, where the community get their daily water needs. There is a total of 45 kiosks that services Misisi Compound and Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC) has plans to build more to meet the demand.

“Water is a human right, so we are making it accessible for all” – Mr Sichone, Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC).

He explained that there was a 10 ngwee charge for a 20-litre container of water. The kiosks are open from 06hrs to 10hrs in the morning and 14hrs to 18hrs in the afternoon, this means access to water is limited to those times alone for the entire community. This also means people queue really early to collect water for daily usage.

Our #WaterChampions concluded their visit to this stop by donating 20-litre containers of water to the local community, as a gesture of goodwill and a reminder that #WaterIsLivelihoods and #WaterIsEverybodysBusiness.

After lunch, we headed to LWSC Stuart Park Distribution Centre. We learnt how water from Kafue reaches the centre, is re-chlorinated and distributed to different parts of Lusaka. A total of 480 million litres of water is consumed in Lusaka and that number only accounts for peri-urban areas where demand is increasing daily.

In response to queries from our #WaterChampions, a Senior Engineer explained how the facility’s leak detection system helps identify leakages thereby reducing water wastage and saving consumers money. We were also informed that LWSC continuously sensitises the public on the need to save water and was happy that the journey of water campaign was augmenting their efforts.

It was a sombre yet exciting atmosphere as we headed to Friday’s Corner in Kalingalinga to embark on the final stretch of the 3-day walk. Upon arrival, we were greeted by cheering crowds who had been waiting anxiously to catch a glimpse of the #WaterChampions and join us for the rest of the walk to East Park Mall. Water champion Victor ‘Kabova’ Chaushi led us all with a medley of songs and jokes that kept everyone’s energy up on the 45-minute walk to East Park Mall. The champions were cheered upon arrival, welcomed by the MC of the night and a dance troupe.

Our special guest for the evening was Bishop Dr Edward Chomba who gave a great speech and inspired the audience before proceeding to the stage with WWF Zambia’s Mr Mwape Sichilongo where they handed certificates to the #waterchampions in special recognition of their commitment towards this incredible achievement.

James Sakala, Kantu Siachingili, Wezi Mhone, and Maureen Lilanda all stepped on the stage during the celebration to wow the crowd with their hit songs. The crowd sang and danced for hours before it was time to pack up the stage and say good bye.

The three days spent on this incredible journey were unbelievably educating for everyone involved and truly highlighted that ‘Water Doesn’t come from the tap’. While the walk is done and the campaign is officially over, it is clear to everyone that our work to influence a generation of responsible water stewards has only just began.

Water is Industries, Communities - Day 2 of JoW

 

 

29 June 2017

Our second day of the JoW walk started bright and early. Our major themes for the day were #waterisindustries and #waterislivlelihoods, effectively taking our #waterchampions to discover how water affects business, industries and communities. To start, our champions were guided on how important healthy wetlands are for food, culture, industry and nature urging them to “look at river tributaries as the human body and water as the blood” that drives ecosystems.

Our first stop was the Lusaka Water and Sewerage (LWSC) Illoaunda pump house where water extraction and distribution takes place. The #waterchampions learnt that there is a total of four pumps used in the distribution process, three that work continuously while the fourth is available for times when water levels are extremely low. Our friends from LSWC explained that by law (WARMA act) in response to climate change or impacts from industry, treated water is first distributed primarily for drinking as this is priority.

Our next stop was Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia (NCZ) plant where we learnt the important role water plays in the day-to-day activities of NCZ which include the production of fertilizer among other products for industrial use. We were informed that NCZ gets their water directly from LWSC to the plant where it undergoes several processes of purification before they add it to the creation of fertilizer. A key process that it goes through is demineralization which takes place in a boiler and removes minerals and impurities from the water.

We were then led through a guided tour of the purification boilers. Our champions were curious as to how the chemical plant disposes off waste considering that the plant accumulates a fair amount of it. We were talked through how engineers at NCZ ensure careful disposal of all waste giving special care that nothing affects the river.

After that we took a 3km walk to the Kafue River Mall where we had a set up for the local people to be able to interact with the champions. A drumming group kept the energy levels high and mesmerised the crowd (water is entertainment?) while the champions mingled with onlookers, spreading the message of the campaign. The locals were ecstatic to meet some household names.

After lunch, we headed to our last stop for the day which was at Mapepe School where we were welcomed by our hosts, a group of excited and curious students. The #WaterChampions were split into four groups and mixed with the children for some fun, educational activities.

We got to learn directly from them about the problems they face with water. The community has three pumps and a tap, far below what is needed for their water requirements. We were moved by the story of a young woman who narrated how extremely difficult it can be to find the 5 Kwacha (about $0.5) monthly fee they pay to pump water into their containers. The pumps are open as early as 6 am and close by or before 5 pm which makes it a challenge if you need water outside of those times.

After a long and demanding day, we headed to our accommodation for some much-needed rest and dinner.

Water is Everybody's Business - Day 3 of JoW

 

11 July 2017

After two days of non-stop engagement, you would be forgiven for thinking our #waterchampions were completely worn out come the final day of the walk, but these guys had energy like you have never seen before!

Our first stop on Day3 was Kudu Farm, one of the largest emerging commercial farms in Zambia, to understand the immeasurable value of water in Agriculture. A rep from the farm took us through their water supply process, where they source the commodity and how pivotal irrigation is in determining crop yields for the farm. We were given an opportunity to tour (and marvel) at the green fields of wheat (which is the main crop grown). We learnt that wheat is such a water-intensive crop that the farm installed an irrigation machine that dispenses water at 55 litres per second! The rep informed us that the farm has seen many changes in the past 20 years in its water levels; highlighting increasing difficulties in accessing water. Our champions were told that before, one had to drill only 6 meters into the ground to find water on the farm, whereas now they have to drill up to 40 meters to access the first drop.

After lunch the #WaterChampions were going live on social media talking about their experiences so far and inviting their followers to the final walk that was going to take place later in the day.

Our next stop was Misisi compound in Lusaka, where we went to learn more about how communities access water. We were given a tour of some water kiosks, where the community get their daily water needs. There is a total of 45 kiosks that services Misisi Compound and Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC) has plans to build more to meet the demand.

“Water is a human right, so we are making it accessible for all” – Mr Sichone, Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC).

He explained that there was a 10 ngwee charge for a 20-litre container of water. The kiosks are open from 06hrs to 10hrs in the morning and 14hrs to 18hrs in the afternoon, this means access to water is limited to those times alone for the entire community. This also means people queue really early to collect water for daily usage.

Our #WaterChampions concluded their visit to this stop by donating 20-litre containers of water to the local community, as a gesture of goodwill and a reminder that #WaterIsLivelihoods and #WaterIsEverybodysBusiness.

After lunch, we headed to LWSC Stuart Park Distribution Centre. We learnt how water from Kafue reaches the centre, is re-chlorinated and distributed to different parts of Lusaka. A total of 480 million litres of water is consumed in Lusaka and that number only accounts for peri-urban areas where demand is increasing daily.

In response to queries from our #WaterChampions, a Senior Engineer explained how the facility’s leak detection system helps identify leakages thereby reducing water wastage and saving consumers money. We were also informed that LWSC continuously sensitises the public on the need to save water and was happy that the journey of water campaign was augmenting their efforts.

It was a sombre yet exciting atmosphere as we headed to Friday’s Corner in Kalingalinga to embark on the final stretch of the 3-day walk. Upon arrival, we were greeted by cheering crowds who had been waiting anxiously to catch a glimpse of the #WaterChampions and join us for the rest of the walk to East Park Mall. Water champion Victor ‘Kabova’ Chaushi led us all with a medley of songs and jokes that kept everyone’s energy up on the 45-minute walk to East Park Mall. The champions were cheered upon arrival, welcomed by the MC of the night and a dance troupe.

Our special guest for the evening was Bishop Dr Edward Chomba who gave a great speech and inspired the audience before proceeding to the stage with WWF Zambia’s Mr Mwape Sichilongo where they handed certificates to the #waterchampions in special recognition of their commitment towards this incredible achievement.

James Sakala, Kantu Siachingili, Wezi Mhone, and Maureen Lilanda all stepped on the stage during the celebration to wow the crowd with their hit songs. The crowd sang and danced for hours before it was time to pack up the stage and say good bye.

The three days spent on this incredible journey were unbelievably educating for everyone involved and truly highlighted that ‘Water Doesn’t come from the tap’. While the walk is done and the campaign is officially over, it is clear to everyone that our work to influence a generation of responsible water stewards has only just began.

Water is Industries, Communities - Day 2 of JoW

 

 

29 June 2017

Our second day of the JoW walk started bright and early. Our major themes for the day were #waterisindustries and #waterislivlelihoods, effectively taking our #waterchampions to discover how water affects business, industries and communities. To start, our champions were guided on how important healthy wetlands are for food, culture, industry and nature urging them to “look at river tributaries as the human body and water as the blood” that drives ecosystems.

Our first stop was the Lusaka Water and Sewerage (LWSC) Illoaunda pump house where water extraction and distribution takes place. The #waterchampions learnt that there is a total of four pumps used in the distribution process, three that work continuously while the fourth is available for times when water levels are extremely low. Our friends from LSWC explained that by law (WARMA act) in response to climate change or impacts from industry, treated water is first distributed primarily for drinking as this is priority.

Our next stop was Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia (NCZ) plant where we learnt the important role water plays in the day-to-day activities of NCZ which include the production of fertilizer among other products for industrial use. We were informed that NCZ gets their water directly from LWSC to the plant where it undergoes several processes of purification before they add it to the creation of fertilizer. A key process that it goes through is demineralization which takes place in a boiler and removes minerals and impurities from the water.

We were then led through a guided tour of the purification boilers. Our champions were curious as to how the chemical plant disposes off waste considering that the plant accumulates a fair amount of it. We were talked through how engineers at NCZ ensure careful disposal of all waste giving special care that nothing affects the river.

After that we took a 3km walk to the Kafue River Mall where we had a set up for the local people to be able to interact with the champions. A drumming group kept the energy levels high and mesmerised the crowd (water is entertainment?) while the champions mingled with onlookers, spreading the message of the campaign. The locals were ecstatic to meet some household names.

After lunch, we headed to our last stop for the day which was at Mapepe School where we were welcomed by our hosts, a group of excited and curious students. The #WaterChampions were split into four groups and mixed with the children for some fun, educational activities.

We got to learn directly from them about the problems they face with water. The community has three pumps and a tap, far below what is needed for their water requirements. We were moved by the story of a young woman who narrated how extremely difficult it can be to find the 5 Kwacha (about $0.5) monthly fee they pay to pump water into their containers. The pumps are open as early as 6 am and close by or before 5 pm which makes it a challenge if you need water outside of those times.

After a long and demanding day, we headed to our accommodation for some much-needed rest and dinner.

Water is Everybody's Business - Day 3 of JoW

 

 

11 July 2017

Our second day of the JoW walk started bright and early. Our major themes for the day were #waterisindustries and #waterislivlelihoods, effectively taking our #waterchampions to discover how water affects business, industries and communities. To start, our champions were guided on how important healthy wetlands are for food, culture, industry and nature urging them to “look at river tributaries as the human body and water as the blood” that drives ecosystems.

Our first stop was the Lusaka Water and Sewerage (LWSC) Illoaunda pump house where water extraction and distribution takes place. The #waterchampions learnt that there is a total of four pumps used in the distribution process, three that work continuously while the fourth is available for times when water levels are extremely low. Our friends from LSWC explained that by law (WARMA act) in response to climate change or impacts from industry, treated water is first distributed primarily for drinking as this is priority.

Our next stop was Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia (NCZ) plant where we learnt the important role water plays in the day-to-day activities of NCZ which include the production of fertilizer among other products for industrial use. We were informed that NCZ gets their water directly from LWSC to the plant where it undergoes several processes of purification before they add it to the creation of fertilizer. A key process that it goes through is demineralization which takes place in a boiler and removes minerals and impurities from the water.

We were then led through a guided tour of the purification boilers. Our champions were curious as to how the chemical plant disposes off waste considering that the plant accumulates a fair amount of it. We were talked through how engineers at NCZ ensure careful disposal of all waste giving special care that nothing affects the river.

After that we took a 3km walk to the Kafue River Mall where we had a set up for the local people to be able to interact with the champions. A drumming group kept the energy levels high and mesmerised the crowd (water is entertainment?) while the champions mingled with onlookers, spreading the message of the campaign. The locals were ecstatic to meet some household names.

After lunch, we headed to our last stop for the day which was at Mapepe School where we were welcomed by our hosts, a group of excited and curious students. The #WaterChampions were split into four groups and mixed with the children for some fun, educational activities.

We got to learn directly from them about the problems they face with water. The community has three pumps and a tap, far below what is needed for their water requirements. We were moved by the story of a young woman who narrated how extremely difficult it can be to find the 5 Kwacha (about $0.5) monthly fee they pay to pump water into their containers. The pumps are open as early as 6 am and close by or before 5 pm which makes it a challenge if you need water outside of those times.

After a long and demanding day, we headed to our accommodation for some much-needed rest and dinner.

Water is Everybody's Business - Day 3 of JoW

 

 

11 July 2017

After two days of non-stop engagement, you would be forgiven for thinking our #waterchampions were completely worn out come the final day of the walk, but these guys had energy like you have never seen before!

Our first stop on Day3 was Kudu Farm, one of the largest emerging commercial farms in Zambia, to understand the immeasurable value of water in Agriculture. A rep from the farm took us through their water supply process, where they source the commodity and how pivotal irrigation is in determining crop yields for the farm. We were given an opportunity to tour (and marvel) at the green fields of wheat (which is the main crop grown). We learnt that wheat is such a water-intensive crop that the farm installed an irrigation machine that dispenses water at 55 litres per second! The rep informed us that the farm has seen many changes in the past 20 years in its water levels; highlighting increasing difficulties in accessing water. Our champions were told that before, one had to drill only 6 meters into the ground to find water on the farm, whereas now they have to drill up to 40 meters to access the first drop.

After lunch the #WaterChampions were going live on social media talking about their experiences so far and inviting their followers to the final walk that was going to take place later in the day.

Our next stop was Misisi compound in Lusaka, where we went to learn more about how communities access water. We were given a tour of some water kiosks, where the community get their daily water needs. There is a total of 45 kiosks that services Misisi Compound and Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC) has plans to build more to meet the demand.

“Water is a human right, so we are making it accessible for all” – Mr Sichone, Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company (LWSC).

He explained that there was a 10 ngwee charge for a 20-litre container of water. The kiosks are open from 06hrs to 10hrs in the morning and 14hrs to 18hrs in the afternoon, this means access to water is limited to those times alone for the entire community. This also means people queue really early to collect water for daily usage.

Our #WaterChampions concluded their visit to this stop by donating 20-litre containers of water to the local community, as a gesture of goodwill and a reminder that #WaterIsLivelihoods and #WaterIsEverybodysBusiness.

After lunch, we headed to LWSC Stuart Park Distribution Centre. We learnt how water from Kafue reaches the centre, is re-chlorinated and distributed to different parts of Lusaka. A total of 480 million litres of water is consumed in Lusaka and that number only accounts for peri-urban areas where demand is increasing daily.

In response to queries from our #WaterChampions, a Senior Engineer explained how the facility’s leak detection system helps identify leakages thereby reducing water wastage and saving consumers money. We were also informed that LWSC continuously sensitises the public on the need to save water and was happy that the journey of water campaign was augmenting their efforts.

It was a sombre yet exciting atmosphere as we headed to Friday’s Corner in Kalingalinga to embark on the final stretch of the 3-day walk. Upon arrival, we were greeted by cheering crowds who had been waiting anxiously to catch a glimpse of the #WaterChampions and join us for the rest of the walk to East Park Mall. Water champion Victor ‘Kabova’ Chaushi led us all with a medley of songs and jokes that kept everyone’s energy up on the 45-minute walk to East Park Mall. The champions were cheered upon arrival, welcomed by the MC of the night and a dance troupe.

Our special guest for the evening was Bishop Dr Edward Chomba who gave a great speech and inspired the audience before proceeding to the stage with WWF Zambia’s Mr Mwape Sichilongo where they handed certificates to the #waterchampions in special recognition of their commitment towards this incredible achievement.

James Sakala, Kantu Siachingili, Wezi Mhone, and Maureen Lilanda all stepped on the stage during the celebration to wow the crowd with their hit songs. The crowd sang and danced for hours before it was time to pack up the stage and say good bye.

The three days spent on this incredible journey were unbelievably educating for everyone involved and truly highlighted that ‘Water Doesn’t come from the tap’. While the walk is done and the campaign is officially over, it is clear to everyone that our work to influence a generation of responsible water stewards has only just began.