Staff Reporter

Water levels in Lake Kariba have shown steady improvement, reaching 16.34% usable storage as of May 12, 2025, offering relief to Zimbabwe and Zambia, which rely heavily on the reservoir for hydropower generation.

According to the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), the lake’s current level stands at 477.85 cubic metres, up from 477.40 cubic metres recorded on the same date last year.

The rise in water levels is attributed to consistent inflows from the upper Zambezi River catchment area.

 While still below optimal capacity, the increase marks a positive shift from previous years when drought conditions strained power production.

The lake’s operational range is between 475.50 cubic metres and 488.50 cubic metres, with a 0.70- cubicmetre buffer for flood control.

The current level remains within safe bounds but highlights the need for continued rainfall to sustain recovery.

Usable live storage, the water available for electricity generation, has climbed to 16.34%, up from 13.17% in 2024.

 This gradual rebound is crucial for both nations, which have faced persistent power shortages due to low reservoir levels.

 Kariba Dam, one of the world’s largest hydropower stations, plays a pivotal role in regional energy supply, and its improved storage could ease load-shedding pressures.

Despite the uptick, experts caution that reliance on seasonal rains remains a vulnerability.

Hydrologist Dr. Tinashe Mangezi welcomed the improvement but warned against complacency.

"While the rise in water levels is encouraging, we must remember that Kariba’s recovery depends on sustained rainfall. Climate change is making weather patterns less predictable, and long-term water management strategies are essential," he said.

Energy analyst Ms. Laura Mwale noted the positive impact on power generation.

"A 3% increase in usable storage may seem small, but it translates to extended generation capacity, reducing blackouts. However, diversifying energy sources remains key to avoiding future crises," she emphasised.

The ZRA continues to monitor inflows closely, with hopes that further rains will bolster reserves.

 For now, the rising levels offer cautious optimism for Zimbabwe and Zambia’s energy sectors, though long-term solutions remain essential to mitigate future shortages.