Chasefu District, Zambia — 27 June 2025
The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation is proud to announce the official commissioning of the Kapekesa Dam, a landmark investment in water security, rural development, and climate resilience. This transformative project, completed at a total cost of ZMW 15,508,460.00, has been fully funded by the Government of the Republic of Zambia, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable development across all regions of the country.
This achievement reflects the visionary leadership of Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, whose continued dedication to expanding access to water and sanitation services—particularly in rural and underserved communities—has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.
About the Kapekesa Dam
Strategically constructed as a Zoned Earthfill Embankment Dam, the Kapekesa Dam is engineered to meet the growing water demands of Chasefu District and surrounding areas. At full supply capacity, the dam holds 900,000 cubic metres of water, serving as a multi-purpose facility that will support:
- Smallholder irrigation
- Livestock watering
- Aquaculture development (fish farming)
The anticipated impact of this infrastructure on livelihoods, food production, and economic resilience is profound. It represents a critical step in empowering local communities to sustainably manage natural resources and adapt to the increasing threats posed by climate change.
A Timely Investment in Climate Resilience
The commissioning of Kapekesa Dam is especially significant in light of the 2024 drought, which severely disrupted agricultural activities and livelihoods across Zambia. The project aligns with the Government’s proactive response to climate risks and underscores the urgent need for resilient water infrastructure, including dams, boreholes, and water harvesting systems.
Kapekesa Dam supports Zambia’s broader development agenda, including:
- Vision 2030: Envisioning Zambia as a prosperous middle-income nation.
- 8th National Development Plan (8NDP): Prioritising economic transformation, environmental sustainability, and human development.
- United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger – Promoting sustainable agriculture and food security.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Strengthening resilience to climate-related hazards.
Catalysing Agricultural and Economic Transformation
This dam is more than a reservoir—it is a catalyst for agricultural modernization and economic transformation. It supports Zambia’s transition from traditional farming systems to more productive, mechanised, and climate-resilient agricultural practices. Through expanded irrigation infrastructure, the dam will facilitate year-round cultivation of both staple and cash crops, improving food security and boosting household incomes.
Furthermore, it will contribute to the Government’s objective to eradicate hunger by 2030, in line with SDG 2: Zero Hunger, by promoting improved nutrition, sustainable farming practices, and resilient food systems.
Collaboration for Sustainable Impact
The successful delivery of the Kapekesa Dam would not have been possible without the tireless efforts and collaboration of multiple stakeholders. The Ministry extends heartfelt appreciation to:
- Government departments and agencies
- Traditional leaders
- Cooperating Partners
- Local communities
Your dedication, cooperation, and active participation made this project a reality. We now call upon all stakeholders to continue working together to ensure that the Kapekesa Dam is sustainably managed and equitably utilised, benefitting not only Chasefu District but the broader region.
Moving Forward
Under the continued guidance of President Hakainde Hichilema, and within the framework of Vision 2030, the 8th National Development Plan, and the Sustainable Development Goals, the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation reaffirms its commitment to delivering inclusive, equitable, and impactful water and sanitation services that transform lives and build a resilient future for all Zambians.
We are proud to declare the Kapekesa Dam officially commissioned and fully operational
