The Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has reported a significant rise in the country’s dam levels, with the national average crossing the 80% mark as of February 17, 2025. This marks an increase from 78.7% recorded the previous week, reflecting the impact of ongoing rains in various regions.
According to ZINWA, Tugwi-Mukosi, Zimbabwe’s largest inland dam, now stands at 96% capacity and is expected to reach full capacity and spill if the current inflows continue. The dam, with a storage capacity of 1.8 billion cubic meters, plays a critical role in irrigation, water supply, and hydroelectric power generation, with an installed capacity of 12 megawatts.
Several other major dams have also recorded substantial inflows. Lake Mutirikwi has reached full capacity at 100%, Manyuchi Dam is at 99.5%, while Insiza Dam remains at 42.6%. Other key reservoirs such as Harava and Bubi-Lupane stand at 51.3% and 52.1%, respectively.
The latest surge in water levels provides a much-needed boost to agriculture, hydroelectric power generation, and domestic water supply.
Zimbabwe, with over 10,000 small and large water bodies, has historically invested in water storage infrastructure, making dams a crucial component of the country’s water security strategy.
