Kariba Dam’s water levels are on the rise following the recent rainfall in the region, bringing optimism for enhanced hydroelectric power generation in both Zimbabwe and Zambia. The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) reported on Monday that the water level in the Kariba reservoir has increased to 476.39 meters above sea level, marking a 6.17% rise in storage capacity.
ZRA CEO Munyaradzi Munodawafa attributed the increase to the intensified rainfall in the Kariba catchment area, which has significantly impacted the region’s water levels. “The Kariba reservoir is gradually rising, mainly due to the increased rainfall around the lake. This positive shift in the hydrological outlook is expected to continue through the first quarter of 2025,” Munodawafa stated.
The Kariba Dam plays a critical role in providing hydroelectric power to both Zimbabwe and Zambia. The increase in water levels is expected to improve electricity generation, which had been severely affected by previous low water levels. As of yesterday, the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) was generating only 185 megawatts (MW) from Kariba, far below its installed capacity of 1,050MW.
Munodawafa emphasized that the rise in water levels represents a significant step toward easing power supply challenges in both nations. “This development is very encouraging, and we expect it to positively impact power generation. We remain dedicated to managing and monitoring water resources effectively,” he added.
Additionally, ZRA reported an increase in inflows at key gauging stations, including Chavuma and Victoria Falls, indicating a recovery from the drought conditions that had previously plagued the region. Munodawafa noted that this recovery was partly due to the dissipation of the El-Niño-induced drought, which had caused substantial moisture loss in both the ground and the atmosphere.
Despite fluctuations in rainfall patterns, which continue to affect agriculture and energy supply, the ZRA remains committed to closely monitoring hydrological conditions to ensure the sustainable use of water resources for power generation and other vital needs in the region.
