The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) says the envisaged direct investment that will be injected in the various economic sectors of the country from the 190 water permits is approximately K2.6 billion.
Authority Public Relation Officer, Joshua Kapila told Money FM News that the largest investment is in the Hydropower sector with a K1.4 billion investment, followed by Agriculture with K 720 million, Municipal with K 360 million, Mining K72 million, while Industrial and Aquaculture being K27 million and K 12.6 million, respectively.
Mr. Kapila disclosed that out of 209 applicants for commercial use across the country, the Authority has approved and granted a total of 190 water permits.
“The Authority wishes to inform the esteemed public that out of 209 applicants considered, a total of 190 water permits were approved and granted,” he said.
He said this comes after the Authority’s Board convened on 11th June 2020 to consider and grant Water Permits to applicants for commercial water use across the country in accordance with the Water Resources Management Act Number 21 of 2011, which mandates the Authority to grant water permits to applicants.
He further reiterated the Board’s commitment in ensuring that the country’s water resources are shared equitably, managed efficiently, used sustainably, and preserved for Zambia’s future generations.
“The WARMA Board of Directors wish to thank the general public and business houses that have supported the Authority in its quest to ensure equitable access to water resources by all and further wish to appeal to any interested party to come forward and apply for water permits for commercial use of water to safe guard their interests in accordance with the law,” Mr. Kapila said.
