Scribd
Upload
37 views

Chishimba Field Project Final

This project examines hydroelectric power generation at Chishimba Falls in Zambia's Northern Province, highlighting its socio-economic and environmental impacts. The Chishimba Falls Hydropower Station has evolved from a 0.9 MW capacity in 1959 to 15 MW after modernization, contributing significantly to local electricity access and job creation. However, challenges such as maintenance issues and limited rural electrification persist, necessitating recommendations for infrastructure modernization and community involvement.

Uploaded by

prosperuchiha32
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
37 views

Chishimba Field Project Final

This project examines hydroelectric power generation at Chishimba Falls in Zambia's Northern Province, highlighting its socio-economic and environmental impacts. The Chishimba Falls Hydropower Station has evolved from a 0.9 MW capacity in 1959 to 15 MW after modernization, contributing significantly to local electricity access and job creation. However, challenges such as maintenance issues and limited rural electrification persist, necessitating recommendations for infrastructure modernization and community involvement.

Uploaded by

prosperuchiha32
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 4

KASAMA BOYS’ SECONDARY SCHOOL

GEOGRAPHY FIELD PROJECT

HYDROELECTRICITY GENERATION IN NORTHERN PROVINCE

NAME: Chishimba Prosper

EXAM NUMBER: [Your Exam Number]

SUBJECT: GEOGRAPHY

CLASS: 12

YEAR: 2025

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I extend my sincere appreciation to all individuals who contributed to the success of this
project. Special thanks go to my Geography teacher, Miss Malisawa, and the Social
Science Department for granting me the opportunity to undertake this study. I also
appreciate Mr. Muonga for coordinating with the authorities at the power station, which
enabled our fieldwork to be conducted effectively.

DEDICATION

This project is dedicated to my family and friends for their unwavering support, as well
as to Miss Malisawa, whose guidance made this research possible. May you continue to
inspire and uplift learners in the same spirit.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

This field study explores hydroelectric power generation at Chishimba Falls and
evaluates its socio-economic and environmental implications for communities in
Zambia’s Northern Province. As electricity demand escalates, particularly in developing
regions, hydropower remains a key sustainable energy source. Chishimba Falls, due to its
geographic and hydrological features, plays a strategic role in national electrification
efforts.
BACKGROUND

The Chishimba Falls Hydropower Station was originally established in 1959 by British
settlers, with an initial capacity of 0.9 MW. By 1971, upgrades expanded the capacity to
6 MW to meet increasing energy needs. In the 2020s, the facility underwent a major
modernization project, funded by the KfW Development Bank of Germany, raising
capacity to 15 MW. This involved installing three 5 MW Francis turbines and
constructing a new powerhouse. The site now generates approximately 73 GWh annually,
contributing to Zambia’s renewable energy sector.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to:


- Examine the stages of hydroelectric power generation at Chishimba Falls.
- Evaluate the socio-economic contributions of the power station to Kasama and the
province.
- Assess the environmental impacts associated with its development and operation.

LOCATION

Chishimba Falls is located about 40 kilometers northwest of Kasama, Northern Province.


It lies along the Luombe River and is accessible via the M3 and D20 roads. The journey
typically takes 45 minutes by car. The area is characterized by forested terrain and is a
designated National Monument, which also makes it an important tourist destination.

CHAPTER TWO

METHODOLOGY

A combination of qualitative and observational methods was employed during the study.
Primary data was collected through field visits, direct observation of infrastructure and
geographical features, structured interviews with ZESCO personnel, and questionnaires
distributed to local residents. These techniques provided insights into both technical and
community-related aspects of hydropower development.

DATA PRESENTATION

Hydroelectric power is harnessed by utilizing the gravitational potential of falling or fast-


moving water. At Chishimba Falls, water from the Luombe River is stored in a reservoir,
channeled through penstocks, and directed onto turbines that are mechanically coupled
with generators. Electricity is then produced and transmitted to the national grid.

Station A houses two turbines generating 1.2 MW each (total: 2.4 MW), while Station B
contains two turbines at 2.4 MW each (total: 4.8 MW). The latest expansion, Unit C,
features three 5 MW turbines, bringing the theoretical capacity to 15 MW. However, due
to maintenance constraints, only about 1.2 MW is currently being generated.

DATA ANALYSIS

The Chishimba Hydropower Station has delivered numerous socio-economic benefits,


including improved electricity access, enhanced service delivery in healthcare and
education, and the stimulation of local enterprise. The facility currently employs 32
individuals, reflecting its role in job creation. Despite these advantages, rural
electrification remains limited in nearby communities, and environmental degradation
from past construction activities persists.

CHAPTER THREE

CONCLUSION

The Chishimba Falls Hydropower Station exemplifies how renewable energy can foster
regional development. By ensuring a stable supply of clean electricity, the facility has
catalyzed socio-economic transformation in Kasama and its surroundings. However,
maintenance issues, uneven electricity distribution, and environmental concerns highlight
the need for improved management and broader community inclusion.

RECOMMENDATIONS

- Modernize infrastructure to restore optimal power generation levels.


- Extend grid connectivity to underserved rural areas.
- Enhance environmental safeguards to protect local ecosystems.
- Encourage community participation and capacity-building initiatives.
- Secure sustainable financing to support ongoing maintenance and development.

CHAPTER FOUR

LIMITATIONS AND CHALLENGES

While the fieldwork was ultimately successful, it was not without challenges. These
included delayed authorization from site management, long travel distances, limited field
time, and inadequate meals during the excursion. Despite these constraints, valuable data
was obtained, which informed this comprehensive analysis.

REFERENCES
- Field visit to Chishimba Hydropower Station, April 2025
- Interviews with ZESCO staff
- Questionnaires from local residents
- Grade 12 Geography Textbook (Zambia Syllabus)
- Energy Regulation Board Reports
- Internet sources
- ChatGPT (OpenAI)

You might also like