The water levels at the Kariba Dam, which is jointly managed by Zimbabwe and Zambia, have seen a steady increase in recent months, offering a glimmer of hope for both nations. The Kariba Dam, the world’s largest man-made lake by volume, is a vital source of hydroelectric power for both countries. However, prolonged drought conditions in recent years had significantly reduced water levels, leading to power shortages. Fortunately, consistent rainfall across the region has resulted in a gradual rise in water levels since January 2025.
As of early March, water levels have risen from 475.77 meters in January to 476.73 meters, bringing relief to power utilities in Zimbabwe and Zambia. Forecasts indicate that water levels could surpass 479 meters by July, improving hydroelectric power generation in the coming months.
The Kariba Dam has long been a cornerstone of the energy sectors in both Zimbabwe and Zambia. Its hydroelectric power station supplies a significant portion of electricity for both nations. However, declining water levels due to recurring droughts have severely impacted power generation capacity, leading to rolling blackouts and economic challenges. These power shortages have strained industrial production, slowed economic growth, and affected the quality of life for millions of citizens.
The increase in water levels is a welcome development for power utilities, which have been forced to rely on expensive thermal power plants and electricity imports to meet demand. A higher water level at Kariba Dam means an improvement in hydroelectric power generation, which could ease the pressure on national grids, reduce costly electricity imports, and provide relief to businesses and households struggling with power cuts.
The rising water levels at Kariba Dam bring renewed hope for economic stability in both Zimbabwe and Zambia. Zimbabwe, in particular, has been grappling with a severe energy crisis, impacting key industries such as manufacturing, mining, and agriculture. Zimbabwe’s power utility, ZESA, has been under immense pressure to secure stable energy sources to meet domestic demand and fulfill regional power-sharing commitments.
With improved hydroelectric power generation, industries may experience reduced downtime, leading to increased productivity and economic recovery. Agriculture, a sector heavily reliant on electricity for irrigation, could also benefit, resulting in better food security and higher exports. Additionally, more reliable electricity supply can help attract foreign investment and promote industrial expansion.
While the rising water levels at Kariba Dam provide temporary relief, both Zimbabwe and Zambia must consider long-term solutions to their energy challenges. The region remains highly dependent on hydropower, which is vulnerable to erratic rainfall patterns and climate change. To ensure sustainable energy security, both nations should invest in alternative renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power.
Furthermore, improving energy infrastructure and efficiency will be crucial in maximizing the benefits of increased water levels. Enhancing transmission networks, reducing electricity losses, and investing in new power generation projects can help both countries build a more resilient energy sector.
As the rainy season continues, the positive trend in water levels at Kariba Dam offers optimism for Zimbabwe and Zambia. A sustained rise in water levels could stabilize power generation and support economic recovery in the short term. However, both nations must continue working towards long-term energy solutions to mitigate the risks associated with over-reliance on hydropower. For now, the steady rise in water levels at Kariba provides a much-needed lifeline, easing electricity shortages and offering renewed hope for economic growth and stability in the region.
In other news – Justice Kwenda demands immediate court appearance of Mike Chimombe
High Court judge, Justice Pisirayi Kwenda, has directed the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) to ensure that businessman Mike Chimombe appears in court this afternoon. This follows Chimombe’s repeated failure to attend his fraud trial, where he stands accused, alongside his co-defendant Moses Mpofu, of defrauding the state of US$7 million in a failed goats tender.
Mike Chimombe was due to appear in court at 10:00 AM today but was once again absent, reportedly due to health issues. This marks the second time in recent weeks that his absence has stalled the proceedings. Read More
