Zambia and Zimbabwe are confronting a severe energy crisis as a result of an El Niño-induced drought that has dramatically reduced water levels at the Kariba Dam, the world’s largest man-made lake, which is a crucial source of hydropower for both countries. The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), which manages the shared water resources of Kariba Dam, reported a dramatic decrease in water levels. As of August 26, 2024, the lake’s usable water storage had plummeted to just 8.71% of normal levels. This sharp decline is due to the prolonged drought caused by climate change, which has had a devastating impact on hydropower generation in the region.
Zambia has announced that it will shut down the hydropower plant on its side of the lake starting September 14. This decision will result in significant electricity shortages, with households and businesses receiving only three hours of electricity per day. The country’s energy deficit is expected to worsen, as Zesco Ltd, Zambia’s power utility, struggles to cope with the dwindling water levels at Kariba Dam. The utility has already begun rotational power supply to manage the crisis, focusing on essential services like water pumping.
Zambia, which relies heavily on hydropower—accounting for 83% of its electricity—faces dire consequences from this energy shortfall. The country’s installed capacity is 3,456.8MW, but the severe reduction in hydropower output leaves it vulnerable. In response to the crisis, Zambia is increasing its reliance on solar energy, with companies like SunnyMoney Zambia reporting a significant surge in solar product sales.
Zimbabwe is also severely impacted by the drought. The country’s power generation from Kariba has already been reduced to 214MW from an installed capacity of 1,050MW. Zimbabwean authorities have warned that they might be forced to shut down their turbines in December if water levels do not improve. Energy Minister Edgar Moyo confirmed that Zimbabwe will maintain its reduced generation capacity until the end of the year but remains concerned about the ongoing situation. Zimbabwe’s power deficit has led to daily blackouts lasting up to 18 hours. The country is currently generating 1,183MW against a peak demand of 2,200MW. The World Bank estimates that the prolonged load shedding could cost Zimbabwe about 8% of its GDP this year. However, investments in thermal power stations have helped mitigate some of the impacts of the drought.
The crisis at Kariba Dam underscores a broader climate emergency affecting Africa. The 2023 State of the Climate in Africa report highlights the continent’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, with an estimated cost of $30 billion to $50 billion annually required to adapt to climate change over the next decade. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and increasing sea levels are posing significant threats to human health, ecosystems, and economic development across the region. Mike Elton Mposha, Zambia’s Minister of Green Economy and Environment, emphasized the urgency of climate action. He noted that Africa’s dependence on rain-fed agriculture and limited adaptive capacity make it especially susceptible to climate change impacts.
The challenges presented by these extreme weather events are jeopardizing progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union Agenda 2063. The ongoing energy crisis in Zambia and Zimbabwe serves as a stark reminder of the far-reaching effects of climate change. As both countries grapple with the repercussions of a shrinking Kariba Dam, the need for sustainable solutions and increased resilience to climate-induced disruptions becomes ever more critical.
In other news – A look back at late Rich Homie Quan’s life and legacy
Rich Homie Quan, whose real name was Dequantes Devontay Lamar, passed away on September 5, 2024, at the age of 34. The rapper, celebrated for his hit songs like “Flex” and “Type of Way,” was found unresponsive by his girlfriend, Amber Williams, who immediately called 911. The cause of his death remains undetermined, with an autopsy scheduled for September 6.
Born on October 4, 1990, in Atlanta, Georgia, Quan had a childhood marked by a deep love for literature and creative writing. In a 2014 interview with XXL magazine, he shared that he excelled in school, graduating with a 3.2 GPA and earning a baseball scholarship to Fort Valley State University. Read More
