Kariba lake levels reportedly rise though not enough to positively impact energy crisis

The Kariba Lake water levels have steadily risen due to consistent rainfall over the reservoir and its surrounding catchment areas.

According to the Zambezi River Authority’s latest hydrology report, the lake level now stands at 475.87 meters, up from 475.15 meters recorded on December 16, 2024.

However, this remains below the 477.28 meters recorded during the same period in 2024.

The usable live storage for power generation has also slightly improved to 2.61 percent as of January 6, 2025, compared to 2.41 percent on December 16, 2024.

However, this figure remains significantly lower than the 12.32 percent recorded in early 2024.

“The Kariba Lake is designed to operate within levels of 475.50 meters to 488.50 meters, with a 0.70-meter freeboard required for safe hydropower generation,” the Zambezi River Authority stated.

Despite the slight improvement, Zambia continues to grapple with a severe energy crisis. Since September 1, 2024, the government increased load shedding to 17 hours daily.

Energy Minister Makozo Chikote attributed this to insufficient Zesco tariffs to cover power import costs, compounded by Kariba Dam’s diminished water levels, leaving only 10 percent of usable water for electricity generation.

“Currently, power generation averages 890 megawatts against an installed capacity of 3,777 megawatts, while the national peak demand stands at 2,400 megawatts, resulting in a deficit of 1,510 megawatts,” Chikote explained.

President Hakainde Hichilema has acknowledged the crisis, which has been exacerbated by climate change and the El Niño weather pattern.

Addressing Parliament earlier this year, Hichilema said the government was implementing various measures to reduce dependence on hydroelectric power and enhance resilience, including promoting alternative energy sources.

Energy expert Johnstone Chikwanda expressed optimism, noting that removing bureaucratic barriers to private sector investment in energy production could yield positive results.

“The measures currently being implemented, alongside strong leadership in driving energy reforms, indicate this crisis is being managed better than previous ones,” Chikwanda said.

The United Nations has highlighted Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi as among the Southern African nations hardest hit by the regional drought that began earlier last year.

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