Several farmers along the Nkulumashiba stream are benefiting from water pumped out of Luanshya Copper Mine’s (LCM) Shaft 28, a project unlocked by President Hakainde Hichilema in May this year.
Since then, LCM has pumped over 28 million cubic metres of water out of the shaft, which had accumulated over the past 20 years. This has led to a significant drop in water levels, reducing the submerged copper ore-rich mine by over 280 metres from its original depth of approximately 900 metres.
In addition to improving water availability, LCM has supported local farmers with essential inputs, including vegetable seeds and fertiliser, enabling them to diversify their crops in line with the New Dawn administration’s agricultural agenda.
Sekile Nambeye, a local farmer, expressed her gratitude, noting that the community around Nkulumashiba stream relies heavily on farming for their livelihoods. She said the collaboration between the government and LCM has brought relief to vulnerable farmers, especially those who depend on rain-fed crops.
As a widow raising her family alone, Nambeye noted that the agricultural support has eased her burden and improved her household’s food security.
Another farmer, Ernest Mwale, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting that without the reactivation of Shaft 28, it would have been nearly impossible to grow crops. “This development will help us grow food and regain our dignity, rather than relying on handouts,” Mwale said.
The water pumping initiative, which has provided both practical and financial support to farmers, is seen as a key step in improving the livelihoods of those living in the area.
