WWF Zambia Responds to Proposed Luapula-Kafue River Water Transfer
WWF Zambia has responded to the government’s proposed Interbasin Water Transfer (IBT) between the Luapula and Kafue rivers, aimed at tackling the country’s drought-induced water scarcity.
Acknowledging the severity of Zambia’s water and energy crisis, WWF Zambia supports the government’s efforts but stresses the need for wider consultation and comprehensive environmental, social, and economic impact assessments before implementation.
WWF Zambia recognizes that while IBTs can provide long-term solutions, they pose significant risks to freshwater ecosystems and local communities if not carefully planned.
Nalucha Nganga Ziba, WWF Zambia Country Director, highlighted that large-scale IBT projects, like the Luapula-Kafue transfer, could increase Zambia’s debt burden, cause community displacement, and trigger environmental challenges, such as flooding.
WWF Zambia also advocates for investments in renewable energy, such as solar and wind, to reduce dependency on hydropower.
Furthermore, the organization calls for the protection of vital headwaters and wetlands, urging the government to complete Catchment Management Plans for both river basins before proceeding with the IBT.
In line with Zambia’s Water Resources Management Act, WWF Zambia calls for a transparent and inclusive consultation process, involving local communities, environmental experts, and regional partners, to ensure sustainable development.
WWF Zambia expressed its commitment to collaborating with the government in finding alternative solutions to secure Zambia’s water and energy future while minimizing environmental and social impacts.
