The Zambia National Service (ZNS) has completed an overhaul of the water and sewerage systems in the hostels at the University of Zambia’s Great East Road Campus, restoring running water to taps, showers and toilets across the residences.
Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu confirmed the completion of the works after touring the hostels alongside ZNS Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff Major General Reuben Mwewa and University of Zambia Vice Chancellor Professor Mundia Muya. Haamaundu said the hostels are now ready for student occupation, with only minor external works still outstanding. He added that the decision on when the university reopens now rests with the UNZA Senate.
Haamaundu credited a multi-sectoral team for the turnaround, naming the Ministry of Infrastructure and Urban Development, the Ministry of Water Development, and the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit alongside ZNS. He noted that beyond the hostel repairs, ZNS also fixed a damaged fire hydrant on campus, which is now operating at full capacity.
Major General Mwewa described the assignment as challenging but said the service met its timeline, and confirmed ZNS will continue with the remaining work until the overhaul is fully complete.
Vice Chancellor Muya thanked President Hakainde Hichilema for what he called a fast response to the crisis at the university, saying the intervention helped ease the difficulties students faced during the shutdown.
The statement was issued by Paul Shalala, Principal Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Defence.
