Lake Nzilo
Lualaba
Lake Nzilo, formerly known as Lake Delcommune, is a man-made reservoir created by a hydroelectric dam on the Lualaba River in the Haut-Lomami Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Situated approximately 16 kilometers northeast of Kolwezi, a major copper mining area, the lake was formed to support mining operations by providing hydroelectric power and water resources. The dam hosts four power generation units with a combined capacity of 100 MW, operated by the national electricity company, SNEL, with the last unit commissioned in 1953. Before dam construction, the site consisted of wetlands and swamps along the river, which now form part of the lake’s surrounding habitat. The reservoir has been stocked with fish and serves as an important site for waterbirds, contributing to local biodiversity. Despite its industrial importance, the lake suffers visible pollution from mining effluent, and schistosomiasis infections have been reported in the area. Nonetheless, it remains a popular location for water sports among expatriates, especially on weekends.
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Astuce: Visitors interested in Lake Nzilo should consider visiting during dry seasons for better water sport conditions. Due to pollution and health risks like schistosomiasis, it is advisable to take precautions when engaging in water activities. Planning visits with local guides and checking for updated safety information is recommended. Tickets or permits are generally not required, but respecting local regulations and environmental protection measures is important.
Faits intéressants
- •Lake Nzilo was formerly called Lake Delcommune, named after Belgian explorer Alexandre Delcommune.
- •The hydroelectric dam has four units with a total capacity of 100 MW, built primarily to power copper mining operations.
- •The reservoir transformed a wetland area into a significant habitat for waterbirds and fish.
- •Despite visible pollution from mining effluent, the lake is a popular site for weekend water sports among expatriates.
- •Schistosomiasis infections have been reported in the lake area, indicating health risks associated with the water.
Histoire
Lake Nzilo was formed following the construction of a hydroelectric dam on the Lualaba River to support copper mining near Kolwezi.
The dam’s four power units were completed by 1953 and have been operational since, managed by SNEL.
Originally, the site was a wetland area before being flooded to create the reservoir.
Over time, the lake has become both an industrial resource and a habitat for fish and waterbirds, although pollution from mining has impacted its environment.