Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe’s water security outlook has significantly improved following sustained rainfall across most parts of the country, with national dam levels rising sharply compared to the same period last year, the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has said.
In a statement on Thursday, ZINWA Head of Corporate Communications and Marketing, Mrs Marjorie Munyonga, said the national average dam level had climbed to 85.6 percent as of January 14, 2026, a notable increase from 63.8 percent recorded during the corresponding week in 2025.
“The country’s water security position continues to register positive gains on account of the rains being received in most parts of the country,” Munyonga said, adding that the situation is expected to further improve as more rainfall is still expected in the coming weeks.
She noted that the encouraging water levels place the country in a stronger position to meet domestic water demands for major cities and towns, while also supporting irrigation requirements for the upcoming winter cropping season, a critical period for agricultural productivity.
ZINWA also reported a growing number of dams that have reached full capacity and are now spilling, reflecting the impact of the good rains. Among the dams currently spilling are Tugwi-Mukosi, Gwenoro, Mamina, Amapongokwe, Matezva, Manyuchi, Silalabuhwa, Exchange, Pollards, Zhovhe, Muzhwi, Rusape and Nyamafufu, among others.
The improved inflows have equally brought relief to traditionally water-stressed areas.
Munyonga highlighted notable progress in Bulawayo’s water supply dams, which have accumulated 4.4 percent since the start of the rain season. The city’s dam levels currently stand at an average of 40.8 percent, up from 28.2 percent during the same period last year.
The positive developments come as a boost to water authorities, local authorities and the agricultural sector, which have in recent years grappled with the effects of recurrent droughts and low dam levels.
ZINWA has, however, continued to urge communities living downstream of spilling dams to remain vigilant and observe safety precautions, while encouraging the public to use water responsibly to sustain the gains being recorded during the current rainy season.
New Ziana
