Staff writer
The average dam level in the country has dropped to 87.3% due to an increase of irrigation water abstractions.
This was revealed by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA).
“Dam levels as of June 17, 2025. Water levels in the country’s major dams are on a downward trend as irrigation water abstractions surge”, said ZINWA.
“The national dam level average has dropped to 87. 3%. Water abstractions for urban domestic water requirements also explain the declining water levels.”
“Though dams continue to hold sufficient stocks to meet both irrigation and domestic water requirements, ZINWA strongly advises raw water users drawing water form the dams for purposes other than primary purposes to ensure that their water use is in terms of water abstraction agreements as required by the law.”
ZINWA water abstraction program involves obtaining agreements for water use from Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) managed dams and rivers. This program ensures the sustainable allocation of water resources among competing users and requires those using water for other than primary purposes to obtain a water abstraction agreement.
Anyone using raw water for purposes other than primary purposes (e.g., drinking, basic hygiene) needs a water abstraction agreement with ZINWA.
The agreements help ZINWA manage water resources effectively, plan for releases, and ensure equitable distribution among users.