Nkana Water Supply and Sanitation Project Phase II, Zambia

SMEC recently hosted dignitaries from the Zambia Ministry of Water and Sanitation to inspect mobilisation of the Nkana Water Supply and Sanitation Project Phase II, Zambia.

The project is funded by the Government of the Republic of Zambia and will extend water supply and sewerage services to defined areas of Kitwe, Kalulushi and Chambeshi.

The client aims to increase the number of daily water supply hours from an average of 10 to 16 hours, with 90 % coverage whilst improving sanitation services to 67 % coverage (by population).

The project includes the rehabilitation of three water treatment plants and upgrades to three sewerage plants, as well as new transmission mains, storage tanks and SCADA systems.

SMEC has been appointed to deliver Engineering Consultancy for the rehabilitation and extension of water supply and sewerage infrastructure, as well as non-revenue water reduction infrastructure. The project is being built by China Henan International Cooperation Group (CHICO). As part of the scope SMEC will oversee cost control, QA, safety and environmental management for up to 400 construction workers dispersed across the site.

One of the biggest challenges facing the project is how to replace the water pipes without disrupting the existing water supply. This is especially challenging in densely populated areas. The solution is to replace the pipes in sections, using careful planning and scheduling. On average, 50 meters of pipe will be replaced at a time, to minimize disruption to communities.

SMEC Team Leader/Resident Engineer: Eduardo Arevalo said,

“The Nkana Water and Sanitation Project Phase 2 will benefit the people living in Kitwe, Kalulushi and Chambeshi by providing them with access to reliable and affordable water and sanitation services. The project will also help to improve the public health and well-being of the communities served.”

The project is expected to be completed in May 2026.

Project Title

Nkana Water Supply and Sanitation Project Phase II

Location

Kitwe, Republic of Zambia

Client

Nkana Water Supply and Sanitation Company

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