Is Lusaka Tap Water Safe To Drink?
No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.
Tap water in Lusaka is treated by the Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company and is generally suitable for drinking within the city’s formal supply network. However, aging pipes, service interruptions, and localized contamination can affect water quality, especially in areas with unreliable supply.
Boil tap water for at least one minute before drinking, or use a properly maintained certified filter. Bottled or treated water is the safer choice for infants, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
Zambia is ranked as number 153 globally with a score of 21.4% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Lusaka, Zambia
Tap water in Lusaka mainly comes from the Kafue River, which is treated at the Iolanda Water Treatment Plant before entering the city’s distribution network. Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company also uses groundwater from boreholes.
The water is disinfected and treated to meet Zambia’s drinking water standards. The balance between river water and groundwater varies across Lusaka and its surrounding service areas.
Lusaka Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Lusaka should not be assumed safe unless they are clearly maintained and supplied by treated, regulated water. Contamination can occur through damaged plumbing, poor hygiene, intermittent supply, or inadequate cleaning.
Use a fountain only when it is clean, functioning, and marked as providing treated drinking water. If its maintenance or water source is unclear, choose sealed bottled water or boil the water before drinking.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Lusaka. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.
About the Author
Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.