Harare, (New Ziana) — Water levels in major dams have started to rise steadily following the onset of the wet spell being experienced across much of the country, the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has said.

According to the ZINWA head of corporate communications and Marketing, Marjorie Munyonga, national dam levels recorded a positive change of 0.47 percent in the week up to Monday when the national average stood at 73 percent, signaling improving water security as the rainy season intensifies.

“Some of the dams to record increases include Lake Chivero, Insukamini, Antelope, Exchange, Mzingwane, Magudu, Mtshabezi, Ingwizi, Tugwane and Muzhwi. More dams are expected to rise in the coming days as the country continues on a strong water security position,” she said.

Despite the encouraging statistics, Munyonga reminded the public that water remains a finite resource requiring careful management.

“ZINWA wishes to remind all water users that even with high dam levels, efficient and sustainable use of water is crucial. It urges all individuals, farmers, miners, institutions, and companies intending to draw water from national dams to come forward and sign water abstraction agreements, which allow ZINWA to reserve and account for their allocations,” she said.

Munyonga also warned that using water without a valid abstraction agreement is illegal and undermines proper water planning and management.

She said ZINWA will continue monitoring river systems to curb any illegal water abstractions, which can threaten downstream users and distort national water security efforts.

With rains expected to continue, authorities say the country is on a strong footing regarding water availability, but vigilance and responsible usage remain essential.

New Ziana