OUR LADY’S SECONDARY SCHOOL

GEOGRAPHY PROJECT

POOR DRAINAGE SYSTEM IN KWAMWENA

MEANWOOD, LUSAKA ZAMBIA.

Prepared by Taro Mweemba

 Acknowledgement
Dedication
Declaration

CHAPTER 1

1.1 Introduction
1.2 Background and Location
1.3 Statement of the problem
1.4 Aim
1.5 Objectives

CHAPTER 2

2.1 literature review

CHAPTER 3

3.1 Methodology

3.2 Data collection

3.3 Data analysis

3.4 Data representation

3.5 Data interpretation

CHAPTER 4

4.1 Discussion

4.1 Limitation

Conclusion

Reference

Appendices
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to sincerely thank the following people and institutions for their important
assistance in seeing this project through to completion:
• Our geography teacher, who helped and supported us during the study process.
• Kwamwena, Meanwood residents, for sharing their perspectives and experiences about the
drainage issues in their neighborhood.

DEDICATION
My dear family, whose unfailing love, support, and encouragement have been my biggest source
of strength throughout this journey, have my sincere dedication for this endeavor. This job has
been made possible by your faith in me.
Additionally, I dedicate this effort to the resilient people of Kwamwena, Meanwood, whose
unwavering everyday tenacity in the face of infrastructure difficulties motivates me to fight for
sustainable urban growth and better living conditions for everybody.
DECLARATION
The undersigned hereby certifies that the research and findings presented in this project are our
own. Every information source has been properly acknowledged.
CHAPTER 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION
Residential neighborhoods like Kwamwena in Meanwood have grown as a result of Lusaka's fast
urbanization. But this expansion has surpassed the advancement of vital infrastructure, especially
drainage systems. Residents of Kwamwena face serious health and environmental concerns as a
result of the regular flooding caused by the area's poor drainage.
1.2 BACKGROUND AND LOCATION
Kwamwena is a residential neighborhood at the Munali roundabout, roughly 4 kilometers off
Lusaka's Great East Road. It was founded in 2007 and has more than 7,000 medium-sized
residential plots that are between 400 and 600 square meters in size. Kwamwena has problems
like poor drainage systems and restricted access to basic amenities even though it is a part of
Lusaka (Meanwood property, 2023). Although precise demographic statistics for Kwamwena are
not easily accessible, the area's growth and closeness to Lusaka point to a sizable and expanding
population.

1.3 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Kwamwena's main problem is the absence of an efficient drainage system, which causes floods
frequently during the rainy season. The inhabitants' everyday lives are disturbed, and the risk of
waterborne illnesses is increased. Lack of adequate drainage infrastructure leads to the buildup of
stagnant water, which provides mosquitoes with breeding grounds and aids in the spread of
illnesses like cholera and malaria. Furthermore, septic tank and blocked drain overflows affect
groundwater sources, raising health concerns even further (The Millennium Challenge
Corporation 2020).
Economic activity is further hampered by the poor drainage system since floods render markets
and businesses inaccessible, resulting in income loss and a rise in poverty. Inadequate drainage
leads to environmental deterioration, which impacts agriculture and food security by weakening
local ecosystems. In addition, improper waste management makes matters worse by clogging
drains with solid waste, which lowers their capacity and increases the frequency of flooding
incidents (Tembo et al.,2024).
These issues have been made worse by inadequate infrastructure investment and poor urban
design. Many places are at risk of flooding as a result of the fast urbanization that has not been
accompanied by the development of drainage systems. Climate change has made the issue worse
by causing unpredictable rainfall patterns, which have increased the frequency and intensity of
floods (okaka F, Odhiambo 2019).
In order to effectively address these concerns, a complete approach is required. This approach
should involve the creation of an efficient drainage system, the improvement of waste
management practices, and the investment in infrastructure.

1.4 AIM
To look into the causes and effects of Kwamwena, Meanwood's poor drainage and offer long-
term solutions to reduce flooding and enhance sanitation.
1.5 GOALS
• To evaluate Kwamwena's drainage system's present state.
• To determine the causes behind the local flooding.
• To assess how inadequate drainage affects the environment and human health.
• To suggest methods for enhancing the infrastructure for draining

CHAPTER 2
2.1 LITURATURE REVIEW
Urban Flooding and Drainage Challenges in Lusaka
The capital of Zambia, Lusaka, has frequent urban floods as a result of a number of causes, such
as erratic weather patterns, fast urbanization, and insufficient drainage infrastructure. According
to research on Ng'ombe settlement, unplanned settlements were mentioned by 25% of
respondents as a major cause of flooding, while 43% of respondents blamed the lack of
professionally built drainage systems (Tembo et al.,2024).

The city's level terrain intensifies these issues, as water has restricted routes for drainage during
substantial rainfall. Furthermore, the lack of adequate drainage systems results in precipitation
overflow, which can transport pollutants and heighten the danger of waterborne illnesses.
(Sasaki., 2009).
Health Implications: Waterborne Diseases and Cholera
Lusaka's poor drainage systems directly affect people's health. According to studies, there is a
statistically significant correlation between higher cholera incidence and inadequate drainage
networks. For example, during the 2003–2004 cholera pandemic, illness loads were higher in
locations with inadequate drainage systems. (Sasaki., 2009).

This problem is further highlighted by the Lusaka cholera outbreak of 2023–2024, which
resulted in over 13,000 illnesses and around 500 fatalities. The Ministry of Health determined
that one of the main risk factors for the outbreak was inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene
(WASH) practices, which were made worse by flooding (Mwale S et al., 2023).
Climate Change and Future Risks
The drainage system in Lusaka faces additional challenges as a result of climate change.
Forecasts suggest that in the upcoming decades, the city will encounter warmer temperatures and
more powerful rainfall events. Urban flooding could become more frequent and severe as a result
of these changes, which could also put further strain on the already insufficient drainage
infrastructure (Taylor,Siame,Mwalukanga,2021).
Infrastructure and Policy Responses
Infrastructure initiatives and legislative changes are two ways that Lusaka's drainage problems
are being addressed. The city's drainage, sewage, and water systems have all been improved
thanks to projects undertaken by the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). These
initiatives seek to prevent flooding and improve public health outcomes by increasing the
capacity of current infrastructure and putting sustainable solutions into place.

CHAPTER 3
3.1 Methodology
The experiences, viewpoints, and effects of inadequate drainage and flooding in Kwamwena,
Meanwood, are investigated in this study using a qualitative research methodology. In order to
have a better understanding of the social, health, and environmental effects of the frequent
flooding, the goal is to document the stories and lived reality of the locals.
3.2 Data Collection
Data was gathered using the following qualitative tools:
15 Kwamwena locals, chosen by purposive sampling to represent a range of ages, genders, and
roles (e.g., mothers, youth, seniors, and informal laborers), participated in semi-structured
interviews.
 Focus group discussion: Seven community members participated in a single session to
talk about coping mechanisms and issues at the local level.
 Field observations: Up-close looks at drainage channels, regions vulnerable to flooding,
stagnant water, and sanitation facilities.
The participants' privacy was respected, anonymity was guaranteed, and verbal consent was
obtained, among other ethical issues.
3.3 Data Analysis
Thematic analysis was used to examine the gathered data:
• To find recurrent themes, field notes and interview transcripts were coded.
• Patterns were categorized according to factors such infrastructure damage, health issues,
movement disruption and coping mechanisms used by the community.
• To highlight important ideas and highlight the human voice behind the problem, quotes from
participants were used.

3.4 Data Representation

Key Themes That Emerged from the Analysis:
1. Disruption of Daily Life and Commuting
“When it rains a lot, traffic just stops. Buses can’t pass, and people end up stranded.”
Female respondent, aged 33
Poor drainage causes flooded streets, which makes it hard for public transportation to run.
Residents said they couldn’t get to their place of work or schools.
2. Health and Sanitation Risks
"Unclean water spreads over the area as a result of our septic tanks overflowing. This increases
our vulnerability to infections and waterborne illnesses like cholera, particularly at this time of
year.
Male respondent, age 30
Water sources become contaminated as a result of overworked drainage and waste management
systems. Waterborne illnesses like cholera and typhoid are known to increase during the rainy
season, especially in densely populated regions without adequate sewage connections.

3. Damage to Infrastructure and Property

“Every year, we have to repaint the house because water leaks into the walls. It costs a lot”
29-year-old single mother

Aging infrastructure is susceptible to recurring water damage, even in formal dwelling areas.
Particularly vulnerable are structures built in floodplains or with inadequate elevation.

.
4. Perceived Neglect by Authorities
"We constantly report clogged drains, but nothing is done about it. Nobody seems to be
accountable”
Participant in a youth focus group
Locals complained about the lack of long-term urban flood management planning, the
government's slow reaction, and unfulfilled commitments.

5. Grassroots Mitigation Effort

"To clear the drains, we plan cleanup days. The water simply accumulates if we do not”
Senior male respondent
Through neighborhood cooperation and community cleanups, urban dwellers demonstrate
initiative. They frequently use social media or local networks to gather resources for small-scale
interventions like culvert clearance or sandbags.
CHAPTER 4: DISCUSSION AND LIMITATIONS
4.1 Discussion
The results of focus groups and interviews shed more light on how urban flooding affects
Kwamwena, an area that is considered urban but has the infrastructural deficiencies of informal
or underserved settlements. The study emphasizes how flooding in these urban areas is a
multifaceted challenge that affects infrastructure, health, transportation, and institutional trust
rather than just being an environmental issue.
Urban Mobility and Isolation
Poor drainage causes waterlogged streets and unusable public transportation routes, as
participants frequently explained. These interruptions have an impact on the economy in a city
where a large number of people use informal or semi-formal public transportation, especially for
daily-paid informal laborers who cannot afford to miss work.

Public Health Vulnerabilities

There is a significant risk of waterborne illnesses in these places due to overflowing drains and
septic systems, particularly during the rainy season. Inadequate urban sanitation makes it easy
for contaminated water to spread, especially in communities without a formal sewage network
connection. For vulnerable populations including children, the elderly, and people with pre-
existing medical issues, these dangers are particularly severe. These regions continue to be
extremely vulnerable to outbreaks of diseases like cholera, typhoid, and other waterborne
infections in the absence of immediate reforms.
Damage to Homes and Infrastructure
Despite being a part of a city and having typically well-built homes, Kwamwena is nonetheless
quite susceptible to flooding because of its low-lying terrain and inadequate drainage system.
Heavy rains still allow water to enter homes, resulting in damage including wet walls, damaged
flooring, and enduring mold. Residents are continuously burdened financially by these
reoccurring problems, as they are required to pay for repairs year after year without outside
assistance or insurance.
Institutional Neglect and Civic Frustration
The ineffective response from local officials was a recurrent topic. Deep-seated mistrust has
resulted from unresponsive municipal authorities, delayed garbage pickup, and blocked storm
drains.
Community Resilience and Self-Reliance
Residents exhibit significant collaboration despite having few resources. Informal solutions that
demonstrate a high level of local organization and resilience include trench digging, cleaning
communal drains, and pooling finances for temporary bridges or sandbags. However, because of
the scope of the issue and the absence of professional assistance, these attempts frequently fail.

Broader Context and Literature Alignment

These results are consistent with a larger body of research in urban studies that links unchecked
urban development, inadequate drainage systems, and a lack of planning supervision to urban
floods in African cities. While statistical data frequently concentrate on infrastructural capacity
or rainfall levels, this study offers a human-centered perspective by showing how these
environmental issues affect the economic, social, and emotional aspects of daily urban living.

4.2 Limitations
 Although the study offers insightful qualitative information, it must be noted that it has
several limitations.
 Representativeness and Sample Size: A small number of focus groups and interviews
served as the foundation for this study. Although the recorded voices are strong, they
could not accurately reflect the range of experiences found throughout the city.
 Subjectivity of Accounts: Personal memory and perception influence responses, as is
the case with the majority of qualitative research. There may be some underreporting or
enhancement, especially when it comes to institutional reactions and health effects.
 Temporal Scope: One rainy season was used to gather the data. Years may have
different experiences, particularly when it comes to changes in the amount of rainfall or
government actions.
  Emphasis on Resident Perspectives: Although crucial, the views of public health
specialists, urban planners, and city officials were not included in this study, which could
have given a more complete picture of the systemic issues and obstacles to solution.
CONCLUSION
According to this study, flooding in Kwamwena is perceived as a systemic failure that extends
well beyond environmental dissatisfaction despite taking place in an urban setting. The rainy
season disrupts daily living, poses health risks, and causes property damage for many locals.
The qualitative information emphasizes how the effects of flooding are made worse by urban
inequality. On paper, the city may have infrastructure and formal planning procedures, but in
practice, these are frequently unavailable or nonfunctional in these places.
Despite these obstacles, the community demonstrates remarkable resilience and creativity by
repairing drains, constructing temporary barriers, and planning neighborhood responses. These
measures, however, only provide temporary solutions and don't result in long-term
transformation. They cannot take the role of organizations making deliberate, sustained
investments in public health and urban development.
RECOMMENDATIONS
We suggest the following multi-level, community-centered solutions to address the issues raised
by Kwamwena residents:
1. Monitoring and Mapping of Drainage by the Community
 Assist locals in mapping clogged or blocked drains with inexpensive resources like
paper-based mapping or smartphone apps.
 Encourage cooperation between urban planners and communities to give priority to
high-risk flood areas for action.
2. Programs for Inclusive Urban Development
 Give underprivileged and unofficial communities top priority when it comes to
improvements to municipal infrastructure, such as road paving, solid waste
management, and stormwater drainage.
 Make sure that climate-resilient elements like raised walkways, permeable
surfaces, and green infrastructure are incorporated into new construction.
3. Seasonal Health Outreach Campaigns
  Before and during the rainy season, coordinate the launch of focused public health
initiatives with nearby clinics and medical professionals.
 Provide health kits and informational materials about avoiding waterborne illnesses,
particularly in public areas and schools.
4. Purchasing Decentralized Drainage Systems
 Provide funding for neighborhood-based, small-scale drainage initiatives.
 Offer technical assistance to guarantee the safety, efficacy, and sustainability of
temporary obstacles or trenches dug locally.
5. Mechanisms for Community Feedback and Institutional Accountability
 Create official avenues for residents to provide feedback, such as mobile reporting
platforms or urban resilience committees, so they can report issues like clogged drains or
unresponsive services.
 To offer communities a voice in the distribution of public monies for local infrastructure,
support participatory budgeting procedures.
References
Tembo, Royd & Kibuka, Esther & Nanyangwe, V. (2024). Urban Flooding: A Case of Ng’ombe
Settlement in the City of Lusaka, Zambia. African Journal of Climate Change and Resource
Sustainability. 3. 405-422. 10.37284/ajccrs.3.1.2469.

Sasaki S, Suzuki H, Yashuyuki F, Yoshinari K, Cheelo M (2009). Impact of Drainage Networks

on Outbreaks in Lusaka, Zambia.

Meanwood property (2023) Kwamwena valley[online] Available at

[Link] [Accessed 22 may 2025]
Taylor, A, Siame,G. and Mwalukanga,B.(2021) Intergrating Climate Risks into Strategic Urban
Plaaning in Lusaka Zambia.
Millennium Challenge Corporation (2020) Infrastructure Activity [online] Available at
[Link] [Accessed 22 may 2025]
Okaka F, Odhiambo B, (2019). Household Perceptions of Flood Risk and Health Impact of
Exposure to Flooding in Flood Prone Informal Settlements in the Costal City of Mombasa.