In loving memory of Kasonde Mulenga

Sadness surrounds SIWI colleagues following the untimely passing of a dear colleague and friend, Kasonde Mulenga. There is also a deep sense of gratitude for his time at SIWI, and his invaluable contribution to the water world.

Water governance Water and food

At SIWI, Kasonde led the implementation of the Transforming Investments in African Rainfed Agriculture (TIARA) project in the Zambezi Watercourse countries. He supported SIWI’s Africa Regional Centre (ARC) in other activities related to water governance in Africa.

“With heavy hearts, we honor the memory of a remarkable individual. As we reflect on Kasonde’s life and his profound impact, we are reminded of the invaluable contributions he made during his time with the SIWI -Africa Regional Centre, where he served with unwavering dedication.”

Alex Simalabwi, Executive Secretary, Global Water Partnership Southern Africa

His background covered both water, sanitation, and hygiene, as well as integrated water resource management, including groundwater, making him a strong addition to SIWI.

“Kasonde was one of those rare water management professionals who straddled the full water value chain, having qualifications and experience both in water resources management as well as water and sanitation service delivery.”

Anton Earle, former Director, SIWI’s Africa Regional Centre

Kasonde reading out the statement of commitment for rainfed agriculture endorsed by all eight Zambezi watercourse countries, at Gaborone, Botswana in 2023. The statement was approved by governments this year 2024.

A huge gap in the water world

Kasonde’s absence will leave a huge gap in the effort to build trust between governments and other partners.

He had a knack for developing warm and friendly relations with colleagues from all walks of life and used this ability to lead teams to develop and implement water projects. His vision was a world where people have equitable access to clean water and are safe from water-related hazards. Kasonde’s work has been instrumental in expanding SIWI’s presence in the African continent and he was always an exemplary ambassador for the organization.

Contribution to Africa

Kasonde’s contribution to Africa’s water security is recognized across the water community. He added 20 years’ experience in water resources planning and project management in the region.

He contributed both in the public and private sector in Southern Africa. He was consulted by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Groundwater Management Institute for technical support to the 16 member states in implementing pilot groundwater infrastructure projects.

“Kasonde's first words in response to differing opinions were always "Yes, I totally agree." Yet, what followed was a heartfelt expression of his own perspective, delivered with love and respect for others. He exemplified the art of constructive dialogue and taught us the power of understanding and empathy.”

James Sauramba, Executive Secretary at SADC Groundwater Management Institute

Isaac Monjo Chavula (Tiyeni), Kasonde Mulenga, Xanani Baloyi and Anton Earle (SIWI Africa Regional Centre)

Knowing Kasonde through travel

Several colleagues got to know Kasonde during travels together.

Kasonde’s love for Africa, its people and nature, was infectious, and he shared it without hesitation.

He had spent seven years working in Botswana as a technical manager for civil engineering services for building water infrastructure.

“During our project conference in Botswana, Kasonde made sure that I paid a visit to the Okavango Delta. He helped me with a visa glitch, not only because of the conference, but so I had a chance to experience the beauty of Botswana that he so dearly adored,” says Radhika Gupta, Communications Manager at SIWI.

“Kasonde was like a brother and work travel buddy for me. Despite a big age difference, we connected on many levels. He’d always find a joke even in serious moments, he respected me and guided me as the programme manager.”

Xanani Baloyi, Programme Manager, SIWI

“Kasonde had something extra, something special, that drew even the most senior people and officials in Africa to establish partnerships with our projects. He could do the same even in the most rural areas and act as an interpreter without a problem,” says Anton Earle.

“He was a big guy with an even bigger presence – soft spoken and a family man with great values,” says Julienne Ndjiki, Programme Officer at SIWI

Above all, anyone who had spent a moment with Kasonde, knows how much his family meant to him. Kasonde is survived by his wife Monica and three daughters.