The SLWSP, a transformative initiative aimed at supplying 100 million litres of potable water daily from Lake Malawi to Salima, Dowa, Lilongwe City, and surrounding areas, continues to make steady progress. The project is being implemented by the Salima Lilongwe Water Supply Company, with Khato Civils-South Zambezi Joint Venture as the main contractor.

Project Overview

The $315 million project involves the design, construction, and commissioning of key infrastructure including; Lifuwu Water Treatment Plant with pumping stations, reservoirs, and chlorination systems, Booster Pump Stations at Katengeza and Mvera, Break Pressure Tanks at Dowa, Over 120 km of transmission pipelines from Lifuwu to Lilongwe and ancillary works such as access roads and valve chambers. Once completed in January 2027, the project will significantly improve water security for Lilongwe and communities along the pipeline corridor, ensuring reliable water supply for at least the next 20 years.

Key Achievements in August 2025

Overall progress stands at 32%, with an increase to 38% expected by September, site establishment is complete at Lifuwu, Kanyenyeva, and Dowa, concrete works advanced across all major sites, including reservoirs and pump stations, Pipeline surveys covering 40 km were completed, and the first 7.5 km of pipeline production began.

Highlights by Site

• Lifuwu Water Treatment Plant; Lower ring beam for pump house completed, reservoir foundations underway; drainage layers installed, and administration building brickwork finished and plastering started.
• Katengeza Booster Station; Pump house progressed to upper ring beam stage, reservoir No. 2 at first lift wall construction.
• Mvera Booster Station; Pump house columns at second lift stage, reservoir valve chambers and subsoil drainage works ongoing.
• Dowa Break Pressure Tank; Both reservoirs at wall second lift stage; preparations for roofing underway.

Health, Safety & Environment

Zero major accidents reported in August; only minor first aid cases recorded, regular toolbox talks and health education sessions conducted, focusing on site safety and hazard prevention, and environmental management measures in place, addressing minor issues such as fuel spillages.

Looking Ahead, in September, works will focus on completing reservoirs and pump houses at Lifuwu, Katengeza, and Mvera, and Starting pipeline installation by the end of the month. The Salima–Lilongwe Water Supply Project remains on track to achieve its mission of delivering clean, reliable water to Lilongwe City and surrounding communities.