ZR Reporter
The Zambia National Service-ZNS has completed major rehabilitation works on water and sewerage systems at the University of Zambia-UNZA hostels, restoring clean and running water to all student accommodation facilities.
Following the works, all hostels are now fully serviced, with taps, showers and toilets reported to be in proper working condition, marking a significant step towards readiness for student occupation.
Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Mr. Maambo Haamaundu confirmed that the hostels are now fit for use, saying only minor external works remain before full handover is concluded.
Mr. Haamaundu said this after touring the facilities together with Zambia National Service Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff Major General Reuben Mwewa and University of Zambia Vice-Chancellor Professor Mundia Muya.
He noted that the intervention by uniformed personnel had been successfully executed, adding that it is now up to the UNZA Senate to convene and determine the official reopening date for the institution.
Mr. Haamaundu further commended the multi-sectoral approach involving the Ministry of Infrastructure and Urban Development, the Ministry of Water Development, the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit and other stakeholders for their role in restoring the water and sewerage infrastructure at the Great East Road campus.
He also revealed that apart from the hostel works, ZNS had repaired a damaged fire hydrant system, which is now operating at full capacity.
ZNS Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff Major General Reuben Mwewa said the service will continue with the remaining works to ensure full completion of the rehabilitation programme, adding that despite the challenges encountered, the project was delivered within the expected timeframe.
Meanwhile, UNZA Vice-Chancellor Professor Mundia Muya expressed gratitude to President Hakainde Hichilema for what he described as a swift response to the crisis, saying it helped ease the suffering of students affected by the infrastructure challenges.
This is according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence Principal Public Relations Officer Paul Shalala.
Zambia Reports l 3rd July, 2026