Zambian Breweries and WWF Advance Efforts to Safeguard Kafue Basin
Zambian Breweries Plc and WWF Zambia are ramping up their efforts to protect the Kafue Basin, a critical water source in Zambia, through a collaborative initiative launched earlier this year.
During World Water Week, the brewing company, part of AB InBev, and WWF Zambia unveiled the WWF|ABI Partnership Report at the Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition (ZAWAFE) Conference.
The report highlights significant threats to the Kafue Flats ecosystem, including deforestation and unsustainable land use practices, which jeopardize the basin’s health and water security.
Zambian Breweries Country Director Thais Cavinatto stressed the urgency of preserving the Kafue Flats, noting the findings from a recent situation analysis study. The study revealed that deforestation and unsustainable practices are increasing soil erosion and impacting water resources.
In response, Zambian Breweries has developed a business case for improved land use and water resource management and is working to educate local communities in Mazabuka, Kafue, Monze, Namwala, and Itezhi Tezhi on sustainable practices.
WWF Zambia’s Country Director Nalucha Nganga-Ziba highlighted the growing pressure on Zambia’s freshwater resources due to population growth, economic development, and climate change. She emphasized the partnership’s goal to secure essential ecosystem services and manage water risks effectively.
The Kafue Flats, which supports over 470 bird species and provides resources for 52% of Zambia’s population, is crucial for Lusaka’s water supply and economic growth. The joint initiative, launched in 2018, has progressed through several phases, focusing on research, natural regeneration, and water conservation.
The third phase of the project, running into 2025, aims to enhance the resilience and productivity of the Kafue region, with pilot projects already showing promising results.
President Hakainde Hichilema’s declaration of a drought disaster has underscored the importance of improving water security. The WWF|ABI partnership exemplifies a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and corporate water stewardship, advocating for innovative solutions and stakeholder collaboration to address shared water challenges.
The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation has endorsed the partnership as vital for sustainable development and called for continued efforts to manage Zambia’s water resources effectively.
