The Government of the Republic of Zambia, through the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, has officially commissioned the Jongolo Dam in Dundumwezi Constituency, Kalomo District, marking another important milestone in expanding access to reliable and sustainable water infrastructure across the country.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on 1st July 2026, Permanent Secretary Eng. Romas Kamanga described the project as a significant investment in improving water security, enhancing livelihoods, and supporting sustainable socio-economic development in Southern Province.
Constructed at a total cost of K9,664,678.85, the Jongolo Dam will directly benefit more than 7,300 people while providing a reliable water source for approximately 5,000 livestock. The facility will also serve surrounding communities by improving access to water for domestic use, livestock watering, agriculture, and other productive economic activities.
Eng. Kamanga emphasized that water remains the foundation of sustainable development and that investments in water infrastructure are essential for strengthening food security, building resilience to climate change, improving public health, reducing poverty, and driving economic growth. The dam is expected to help communities better withstand recurring droughts and unpredictable rainfall while creating opportunities for increased agricultural production, livestock development, and income generation.
He noted that the project reflects the Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that no community is left behind in accessing essential water resources and aligns with national development priorities aimed at promoting rural development, improving livelihoods, and enhancing resilience against the adverse effects of climate change.
The Permanent Secretary commended the engineers, contractors, consultants, local leadership, and community members whose dedication and cooperation contributed to the successful completion of the project.
He further encouraged the people of Dundumwezi to take ownership of the dam by protecting it from vandalism, ensuring its proper management and maintenance, and using it responsibly so that it continues to benefit both present and future generations.
The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation remains committed to expanding water infrastructure across Zambia to provide more communities with safe, reliable, and sustainable water resources for both domestic and productive use.
The commissioning of the Jongolo Dam represents another step towards achieving improved water security, enhanced food production, stronger climate resilience, and sustainable development for the people of Kalomo District and the nation at large.
By: PR Unit-MWDS
