In June this year, WWF, Zambia Electricity Supply Company Ltd (ZESCO), and Zambia's Ministry of Energy and Water Development (MEWD) signed a landmark agreement worth 826,441 euros to jointly fund and implement an Integrated Water Resource Management Programme for the Kafue Flats. The project will contribute towards the restoration of the natural ecosystem which is dependent on the natural flooding regime of the Flats.

The construction of two dams in the 1970s effectively altered the timing of the flooding and the extent of the area flooded. This has diminished productivity and resulted in the decline of water resources. Grazing areas have been reduced and there have been negative impacts on wildlife and fish. These have reduced potential for tourism.

At the signing ceremony, Dr Austin Sichinga, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary said there was an urgent need to manage water resources of the Kafue Flats in order to improve wildlife and fish resources. ZESCO Managing Director, Mr Rodney Sisala, said his company recognised the need to manage the water resources in the Kafue Flats for the benefit of all stakeholders. He added that ZESCO’s participation in the tripartite agreement demonstrated the company’s commitment to maintaining the natural environment of the flats. The signing ceremony marked the beginning of Phase Two of the Integrated Water Resource Management Programme. This phase involves the implementation some of the management strategies identified to jump-start restoration of the Kafue Flats.