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Strengthening Water Stewardship: Training on AWS Principles to Secure Zambia’s Water Future

Written by Johanna Lübbers on . Posted in Countries, Zambia.

“Water is the driving force of all nature” – Leonardo da Vinci

Water is a vital resource that underpins economic growth, human health, and environmental sustainability. Yet, alarming estimates from the World Bank warn that by 2030, global water demand will exceed supply by 40% if current practices persist. This stark reality is even more pronounced in Zambia, where a severe drought has profoundly impacted the nation’s economy, society, and environment.  

Recognising the urgency of sustainable water management, GIZ NatuReS and the Lusaka Water Security Initiative (LuWSI) re-invigorated the conversation on water stewardship through an Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) Foundation Class on March 13, 2025. The training introduced key stewardship principles and the AWS Standard, empowering diverse water users, regulators, and city planners to implement sustainable water practices. 

AWS Foundation Class Group Photo. © GIZ

Understanding the AWS Standard

The AWS Standard is a globally applicable framework for major water users to understand their water use and impacts, and to work collaboratively and transparently for sustainable water management within a catchment context. The AWS Standard promotes responsible water use that is socially equitable, environmentally sustainable, and economically beneficial.It achieves this by engaging water-using sites in understanding and addressing shared catchment water challenges as well as water risks and opportunities.

Private Sector Action for Water Stewardship

Participants of the foundation class gained a comprehensive understanding of the AWS framework and its application across various industries, equipping them with the tools they need to drive effective water stewardship.

A highlight of the class was a presentation from British American Tobacco (BAT), the first AWS-certified site in Zambia. BAT shared valuable insights into their certification journey, offering a practice example of how businesses can integrate sustainable water management into their operations. A key take-away was the need for good institutional buy-in at all levels from management to the technical level to successfully implement stewardship initiatives.

To bring theory to life, participants visited Zambian Breweries the following day for a firsthand look at water efficiency and circularity strategies. The visit showcased innovative approaches to water resource management and sparked further discussions on how private sector collaboration can drive collective action for water stewardship.  

Insights from the private sector. Left: Sophia Mapulanga Sawomba from British American Tobacco presenting the AWS Certification Journey. Right: Richard Zulu from Zambia Association of Manufacturers explaining opportunities to promote stewardship for their membership. © GIZ

A Call for Businesses to Move Beyond Compliance

One of the key discussions during the event centered around the potential of the AWS Standard to encourage businesses to move beyond mere compliance with regulations. Regulators often struggle with enforcement, but implementing stewardship principles can serve as a powerful tool to compel businesses to adopt sustainable water practices – a win-win for business and the regulator. By developing stewardship action plans, businesses can gain a deeper understanding of their water usage and take meaningful steps to safeguard this critical resource.

Shifting towards stewardship requires a significant mindset change, but the benefits are undeniable. Beyond enhancing corporate reputation, businesses that embrace stewardship become more resilient to water-related risks and strengthen their relationships with government bodies and local communities. Proactively engaging in water stewardship can also help prevent conflicts over water access, ensuring a more stable and cooperative business environment. 

A Step Towards a Sustainable Future 

The AWS Foundation Class was a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, equipping participants with the principles, tools, and inspiration to champion water stewardship in their respective sectors. As Zambia grapples with the challenges of water scarcity, initiatives like this provide hope for a future where businesses, government and communities work together to safeguard water for generations to come.  

The call to action is clear: water stewardship is not just an environmental responsibility but a strategic imperative. By fostering sustainable practices today, we can build a more resilient, water-secure tomorrow. 

LuWSI Strategy Launch : A Vision for Water Security in Zambia

Written by a.linke on . Posted in Countries, Zambia.

On December 13, 2024, the Lusaka Water Security Initiative (LuWSI) unveiled its 2025–2029 Strategic Plan in an event that brought together over 70 distinguished guests from government, business and civil society organisations. Co-sponsored by GIZ NatuReS Zambia, Zambian Breweries and LuWSI, the launch underscored the critical role of multi-stakeholder collaboration in addressing water security and sanitation challenges in Lusaka and beyond.

Official Launch of the LuWSI Strategy led by Engineer Peter Mutale – Chief Inspector at the National Water Supply and Sanitation Council, Ms Nalucha Nganga Ziba – Country Director of WWF Zambia and Ms Adjoa Parker Country Coordinator of NatuReS GIZ (left to right). ©GIZ

The Urgency of Water Security

Water security remains one of Zambia’s most pressing challenges, as evidenced by the 2024 drought and resulting power shortages due to hydropower disruptions. These crises have had far-reaching effects on agriculture, energy, and economic development, underscoring the urgent need for collective action. The World Bank in a snap shot overview of the country explains it further; “This climatic disaster has slowed real GDP growth to 1.9% year-on-year in the first half of 2024 from 4.3% during 2023, reflecting contractions in the agriculture and energy sectors, and subdued performance in administrative and support services”.

As noted by Mr. Pasca Mwila, the Assistant Director of the department of resources and development in a speech he read on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation “Water security remains one of the most pressing issues that affects both human health and economic development and events like these are a significant step towards ensuring collective steps are undertaken to secure a sustainable water future for Zambia”.

This sentiment aligns with LuWSI’s mission to foster partnerships that safeguard natural resources while promoting equitable and sustainable access to water for all.

Community ensemble Arts dance group showcase their spectacular traditional dance moves and make a call for collective action during the opening ceremony of the Strategy Launch. ©GIZ

A Vision for the Future

LuWSI’s 2025–2029 Strategic Plan is a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing natural resource-related risks. Guided by a vision of a water-secure Zambia where residents and businesses thrive, the strategy outlines clear objectives and actionable steps to drive impactful change.

Key insights from the strategic plan include:

  • Water Security as a Development Cornerstone: Recognizing water security as vital for sustainable development, the plan emphasizes the importance of cross-sector collaboration to champion a shared agenda.
  • Alignment with National Priorities: The strategy aligns with the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), reflecting stakeholders’ growing demand for nationwide multi-stakeholder collaboration to address water challenges.

Four Strategic Objectives

  1. Enhance Stakeholder Collaboration: Strengthen partnerships across sectors to foster unified efforts.
  2. Catalyze Sustainable Resourcing: Secure funding and resources to sustain collaborative initiatives.
  3. Streamline Procedures and Processes: Improve operational efficiency to support LuWSI’s expanded mandate.
  4. Strengthen Governance and Secretariat Capacity: Build internal capacity to effectively implement the strategic plan.
The Interim Coordinator of LuWSI Engineer Kasenga Hara giving an overview of the new LuWSI Strategy. ©GIZ

Celebrating Champions of Water Stewardship

The event also celebrated excellence in promoting water stewardship and good governance, applauding private sector companies and individuals for their impactful contributions. Initiated in 2018, these private sector awards are preceded by a rigorous evaluation process, conducted by LuWSI partners. The goal is to encourage and recognise companies that align their production processes to good water stewardship practices in order to protect resources. For 2024, Zambian Breweries received first place for its outstanding efforts, while Zambia Sugar secured second place.

Individual awards went to Mr. Jonathan Phiri (Water and Sanitation Association of Zambia- Wasaza), Mr. David Nonde Mwamba (GIZ NatuReS), and Mr. Gershom Pule (Worldwide Fund for Nature – WWF), who were honoured as 2024 Water Security Champions for their dedication to fostering collaboration and championing water security on the LuWSI Platform.

The private sector awards ceremony led by Ms. Yankho Mataya LuWSI Board Chairperson and Wateraid Zambia Country Director, Mr. Pasca Mwila the Assistant Director of the department of resources and development and Fungai Musana Chief External Engagements Officer WWF (right to left). ©GIZ

Looking Ahead

The LuWSI Strategy Launch 2024 marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s journey toward water security. By leveraging the power of partnerships and aligning with national priorities, LuWSI is on course to drive transformative change over the next five years.

“Together, we can secure a future where every Zambian thrives with reliable and sustainable access to water” stated the LuWSI Board chairperson Ms. Yankho Mataya. The initiative’s renewed commitment to collaboration and innovation promises to inspire and empower stakeholders to tackle water security challenges head-on. 

Inter-country learning on Stewardship, Partnerships and Sustainable Development: The Zambian perspective

Written by a.linke on . Posted in Countries, Zambia.

Lusaka, the bustling capital of Zambia, is a city where the demands of urban expansion, industrial growth, and the needs of surrounding catchment areas converge. As economic activities flourish, the challenge of managing natural resources in a sustainable way becomes increasingly complex. A number of key stakeholders have embraced the stewardship approach, utilizing multi-stakeholder partnerships such as LuWSI (Lusaka Water Security Initiative) to foster resilience and sustainable resource use. This collaboration space also provides opportunity for learning and cross-country exchanges, experiences, success factors and collaborative strategies among countries facing similar challenges.

The Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition (ZAWAFE): A launchpad for learning

In June 2024, Zambia hosted the Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition Conference in Lusaka, with the theme “Closing the Gap: Working towards the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) target”. A focus session titled “Forging Resilience through Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships”, supported by NatuReS, emphasized the role of stewardship collaborations in enhancing the resilience of cities and catchments. Experiences and lessons were shared from similar stewardship multi-stakeholder partnerships from South Africa – UWASP (Umhlathuze Water Stewardship Partnership), Tanzania – Dar es Salaam City Water Resilience Partnership as well as Zambia’s own multi-stakeholder partnership – LuWSI (Lusaka Water Security Initiative).

Group picture at ZAWAFE session with NatuReS team and partners from LuWSI, UWASP and Dar es Salaam City Water Resilience Partnership. © GIZ

The session provided a platform for these partnership stakeholders to share their experiences in building collaborative frameworks to sustainably manage water resources. Participants explored strategies that have proven successful in their contexts and discussed how partnerships can align the interests of governments, businesses and communities. For Lusaka, this exchange illuminated how integrated natural resources stewardship could help the city balance its urban, industrial, environmental and social needs.

Sustainable Industries Conference in Pretoria, South Africa:  Developing industrial spaces towards resilience and circular economy

Building on the momentum of the ZAWAFE, stakeholders from Zambia attended the Sustainable Industries Conference with a focus on the concept of Eco-Industrial Parks; particularly the transition towards sustainable and circular economy practices. Zambian representatives gained insights into how eco-industrial parks can minimize waste, optimize resource use, and reduce environmental impact, thus creating industrial areas that are more competitive and attractive for investment through sustainable practices. Understanding the importance of integrating social considerations, such as community engagement and worker welfare, into industrial park development.

A site visit to a local eco-industrial park provided hands-on learning about the strategies employed to achieve resource efficiency and sustainability. For Lusaka, the lessons learned are critical for shaping policies aimed at transforming its industrial areas into eco-friendly zones that balance economic development with environmental stewardship.

Read more about the conference here.

Group picture of Zambian delegates from Zambia Association of Manufactures, WASAREC, NatuReS Zambia and Management of the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone at the Sustainable Industries Conference. © GIZ

Stewardship multi-stakeholder partnerships regional exchange – partnering towards a circular economy

The final regional exchange and learning event of the year took Zambian stakeholders to Ethiopia for a NatuReS-wide regional learning and exchange event. This event concentrated on stewardship multi-stakeholder partnerships and their role in promoting circular economy. The Ethiopian experience demonstrated how supportive policies can drive circular economy practices and attract investment, the importance of empowering vulnerable groups, especially women, to participate in resource stewardship and leveraging the capabilities of businesses to drive sustainable practices that benefit both the economy and local communities.

For Zambia, this exchange provided valuable insights into how multi-stakeholder partnerships can be utilized to address key city challenges. By learning from Ethiopia’s successes and setbacks, Zambian stakeholders were able to identify strategies that could be adapted to the Zambian context.

Learn more about the regional exchange in Ethiopia.

Group Picture during a site visit at a waste transfer station in Addis Ababa with the NatuReS Zambia team and LuWSI partners from National water Supply and Sanitation Council, Coca-Cola Beverages Zambia and Water and Sanitation for the Urban Poor. © GIZ

The way forward for Zambia´s learning journey on Natural Resources Stewardship

The cross-country learning exchanges have underscored the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable natural resources stewardship. For Zambia, the lessons learned from neighbouring countries and beyond have equipped stakeholders with the knowledge and tools to address the complex interplay between urban development, industrial growth, environmental protection and the well-being of all members of society.

Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue for Water Security: Insights from the Lusaka Water Security Initiative Forum

Written by a.linke on . Posted in Countries, Zambia.

The Lusaka Water Security Initiative (LuWSI) Secretariat recently organized a highly engaging discussion forum aimed at fostering dialogue and action around sustainable water management in Zambia. Funded by Zambia Breweries, a private sector partner of the LuWSI partnership, and facilitated by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Zambia, this event held on the 17th of October 2024 attracted a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from government agencies, academia, NGOs, and the private sector.

The meeting focused on a major project: the proposed Inter-Basin Water Transfer (IBWT) from the Luapula to the Kafue River system—a plan designed to enhance water availability for economic activities, including power generation. Zambia is currently grappling with a severe drought which has caused energy shortages affecting industries and the livelihood and well-being of citizens. As the IBWT is a proposed solution to the water scarcity problem, this forum provided a critical space for stakeholders to voice their perspectives on the project, emphasizing the need for collaborative planning and consultation.

Key takeaways

  • The meeting featured a range of presentations, each shedding light on the complexities of the Luapula to Kafue IBWT project. The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation highlighted the potential benefits, such as improved water security, enhanced agricultural productivity, and increased power generation. However, the significant challenges, including environmental impacts, social concerns, and the economic costs of such an ambitious project were also acknowledged.
  • Regional and global examples of IBWT projects were presented, drawing lessons from initiatives in South Africa and China. These case studies underscored the need for careful planning, stakeholder engagement, and a thorough cost-benefit analysis before proceeding. The complexity of water transfer projects often brings to light issues of social displacement, environmental degradation, and potential political tensions.
  • A representative from the University of Zambia emphasized the importance of research and evidence-based decision-making. The university’s involvement in ecosystem assessments and feasibility studies demonstrated how academic institutions could contribute critical knowledge to ensure that projects are not only technically feasible but also socially and environmentally sound.

Forging resilience through partnerships

The LuWSI discussion forum showcased the power of multi-stakeholder engagement in tackling complex water management challenges. By bringing together the perspectives and expertise of government agencies, private companies, NGOs, and academia, the event underscored the need for collective action to ensure sustainable water use in Zambia.

The active support of the private sector seen through Zambia Breweries demonstrated how private sector involvement can serve as a catalyst for both dialogue and concrete action. Furthermore, it highlightend how private entities can lead by example, investing in the long-term sustainability of the regions where they operate. This kind of commitment is crucial as it promotes a shared responsibility for natural resources, benefiting both businesses and communities. By backing such multi-stakeholder initiatives, the private sector can support platforms for diverse voices to come together, ensuring that interventions and projects are both sustainable and inclusive.

As the LuWSI Chairperson noted, the meeting aimed not only to foster dialogue but also to serve as a catalyst for concrete action.

As Zambia navigates the complexities of projects like the Luapula to Kafue IBWT, such collaborative efforts will be crucial in balancing economic development with environmental sustainability and social equity. 

Learn more about the partnership in our LuWSI video.