The Salima–Lilongwe Water Supply Project (SLWSP) continues to make significant progress, with ongoing construction activities at four key sites: the water treatment plant at Lifuwu in Salima, and pump stations at Katengeza, Mvera, and Chezi in Dowa District. These developments mark crucial milestones toward delivering reliable and sustainable water supply to the communities of Salima, Dowa, and Lilongwe.

Lifuwu Water Treatment Plant – Salima

Construction works at the Lifuwu water treatment plant are progressing steadily. Earthworks continue with a focus on constructing embankment fill layers to the foundation design level platforms using imported gravel materials. The construction of these embankments has been strategically sequenced, prioritising the chlorination building platform, followed by the pump house section.

Additionally, the installation of the perimeter fence is nearing completion, enhancing site security and delineation. These activities set the foundation for key infrastructure components necessary for the effective treatment of raw water from Lake Malawi.

Katengeza Pump Station – Dowa

At the Katengeza pump station site, the contractor has commenced the construction of the pump house. Notably, the concrete casting for the first lift of the columns—up to a height of 3.65 meters—has been successfully completed.

The contractor has also constructed the majority of the foundation bases for the pump house, with only five bases remaining due to a large rock formation currently being excavated. This ongoing work signifies steady advancement in the structural components of the pump station.

Mvera Pump Station – Dowa

At Mvera, current efforts are concentrated on the construction of a reinforced concrete retaining wall to support the embankment fill. Excavation for the retaining wall has been completed, and as of this reporting period: 93% of the retaining wall base has been constructed,

Reinforcement steel fixing is approximately 73% complete,

The overall physical completion of the retaining wall is estimated at 66%.

This structure will provide critical support to the site’s embankments and ensure long-term stability of the facility.

Chezi Pump Station – Dowa

Preparatory works are also ongoing at the Chezi pump station site, contributing to the overall network of infrastructure that will convey treated water from the source to end users in Lilongwe and surrounding areas.

Pipeline Route Preparation

In tandem with construction at the above sites, preparatory activities for the main transmission pipeline are underway. Current efforts involve detailed route mapping and technical evaluations to guide the upcoming pipeline installation works.

The Salima–Lilongwe Water Supply Project remains a transformative initiative aimed at securing bulk potable water for current and future generations. The ongoing physical works reflect strong coordination between the contractor, client, and stakeholders, and demonstrate our commitment to delivering this vital infrastructure on schedule.