The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) announced a promising uptick in water levels at the Kariba Dam following recent rainfall, reporting a current measurement of 476.39 meters above sea level.
This marks a significant 6.17% increase in water storage capacity, a welcome development for both nations reliant on this critical hydroelectric source.
ZRA CEO Munyaradzi Munodawafa attributed the rise to improved rainfall in the Kariba catchment area.
“The recent rainfall activity has positively impacted our hydrological outlook, and we anticipate this trend to continue through Q1 of 2025,” he stated in a hydrological update.
Kariba Dam is vital for power generation in Zambia and Zimbabwe, and this increase in water levels is expected to enhance capacity. Currently, the Zimbabwe Power Company is generating 185 MW from an installed capacity of 1,050 MW, a figure that could rise significantly with the improved reservoir conditions.
“The increase in water level is a welcome development,” Munodawafa affirmed, emphasizing the authority’s commitment to efficient water resource management. He highlighted the critical need for ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal power generation and water management at the dam.
The ZRA noted a gradual increase in inflows along the Zambezi River at key gauging stations, such as Chavuma and Victoria Falls. This rise follows the recent easing of El Niño-induced drought conditions, which had severely impacted moisture levels.
With the Kariba Dam’s water rising, the question remains: will this influx be enough to secure energy stability for the region, or are more significant challenges lurking on the horizon?
