Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
The nation’s water security outlook has significantly improved following sustained rainfall across most parts of the country, with national dam levels rising to 85,6 percent as of January 14, 2026, up from 63,8 percent recorded during the same period last year.
In a statement, Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) head of Corporate Communications and Marketing, Mrs Marjorie Munyonga, said the positive trend reflects the impact of the current rainy season and places the country in a stronger position to meet both domestic and agricultural water demands.
“The country’s water security position continues to register positive gains on account of the rains being received in most parts of the country,” he said.
“As of January 14, 2026, the national dam level average had risen to 85,6 percent compared to 63,8 percent recorded during the same week last year.”
Mrs Munyonga said the situation is expected to improve further as more rainfall is anticipated in the coming weeks.
“The water security position is expected to further firm up as more rains are still being anticipated. This development places the country in better stead to meet the domestic water requirements for major cities and towns, as well as the irrigation needs for the impending winter cropping season,” she said.
According to ZINWA, the number of dams that have filled up and are now spilling has increased significantly.
These include Tugwi-Mukosi, Gwenoro, Mamina, Amapongokwe, Manyuchi, Silalabuhwa, Exchange, Pollards, Zhovhe, Muzhwi, Rusape and Nyamafufu among others.
Mrs Munyonga also said there were notable improvements in Bulawayo’s supply dams, which have traditionally faced acute water shortages.
“Notable gains have also been recorded for Bulawayo dams, which have so far accumulated 4,4 percent since the onset of the season, with a current average of 40,8 percent compared to 28,2 percent during the same period in 2025,” she said.
Across the country, several dams in the Gwayi, Runde, Mzingwane and Sanyati catchments are at or near full capacity, strengthening prospects for irrigation, water supply and overall food security.
ZINWA has, however, urged communities to continue using water responsibly and to remain cautious around spilling dams and swollen rivers as the rainy season progresses.
