Rising Theft of Water Meters
MWSC reports a sharp increase in water meter theft, affecting service delivery, revenue collection, and infrastructure security across its service areas.
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Release)
RISING THEFT OF WATER METERS
Chingola, 14th April 2026 — Mulonga Water Supply and Sanitation Company Limited (MWSC) has expressed serious concern over the escalating theft of water meters across its service areas, with more than 150 meters stolen over the past six months. The rising trend poses a significant threat to service delivery, operational efficiency, and revenue collection.
The theft of water meters continues to undermine the Company’s operations by contributing to revenue losses, disrupting water supply services, and increasing the cost of replacing stolen infrastructure. The situation is further exacerbated by increasing cases of theft and vandalism targeting water infrastructure, which are now emerging as a major threat to the successful implementation of several ongoing service improvement projects.
These criminal activities not only derail progress but also divert critical resources intended for system upgrades and service expansion.
The increasing incidents also have the potential to negatively affect the Company’s metering ratio, which currently stands at 87 percent, and may further worsen Non-Revenue Water (NRW) levels, currently estimated at 32 percent.
The Company has since reported the matter to the Zambia Police Service, and investigations are currently underway. MWSC is working closely with law enforcement agencies through its Security Office to track down the perpetrators and curb the vice.
Since October 2025, a total of 56 theft cases have been formally recorded, with the highest number reported in Lubengele Township at 17 cases, followed by Kakoso Township with 7 cases. Other affected areas include Lulamba, Chikola, Mutelo Police Camp, Kankoko, Kasompe, and Nchanga North, among others.
In Mufulira District, three cases have been recorded between 2025 and early 2026.
MWSC is appealing to members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving water infrastructure. Customers are also encouraged to take proactive measures to safeguard their water meters, including securing installations and promptly reporting any cases of tampering or theft.
The Company remains committed to providing reliable and sustainable water supply and sanitation services and urges all stakeholders to play an active role in protecting public infrastructure.
Issued by:
Bright Mtonga
Communications Manager
Mulonga Water Supply and Sanitation Company Limited