Tests conducted on water samples collected from parts of Nyumba Yanga, Kabulonga and Ibex Hill in Lusaka have revealed that the commodity is contaminated. On Wednesday, there were reports of people suffering from diarrhoea as a result of consuming alleged contaminated tap water. Lusaka Water and Sewerage Company managing director Jonathan Kampata told journalists yesterday that officers from the company, the Ministry of Health, Lusaka City Council and the Zambia Institute of Public Health are still investigating the matter.

Mr Kampata said although the tests revealed contamination, the affected areas are serviced by two boreholes which are not contaminated. “This was an isolated instantaneous contamination. The source is not contaminated but the water from homes is,” he said. Mr Kampata said the water company is investigating the point at which the water got contaminated. He said preliminary investigations indicate that the contamination could have been due to water leakages in the distribution network.

Mr Kampata urged Lusaka residents to empty water tanks at their homes and clean before refilling them. He said the company provides safe drinking water because its standard quality is at 98 percent, above the recommended 95 percent.

Mr Kampata said it is important for customers to follow the right channels when airing their grievances so that appropriate action can be taken. He said social media should not be used to alarm members of the public but to communicate correct information. The managing director said even if the source of water for the affected areas has no traces of contamination, people should exercise caution by ensuring