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Zambia’s power utility company, ZESCO, has maintained its cautious stance on increasing power generation at Lake Kariba despite a slight rise in water levels, warning that premature action could exhaust the reservoir and leave the nation vulnerable in the event of insufficient rains.
The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) reported that the water level at Lake Kariba had risen to 475.87 meters, an improvement from the minimum operational level of 475.50 meters.
However, ZESCO spokesperson, Matongo Maumbi, emphasized that the usable storage remained critically low, at just 2.61 percent compared to 12.32 percent during the same period last year.
Maumbi, in a statement issued on Tuesday, explained that ZESCO would maintain its current reduced generation levels while closely monitoring water levels and rainfall patterns.
He stressed the need for a cautious approach to ensure the long-term stability of electricity supply.
“While this is a positive development, the water level remains significantly below last year’s 477.28 meters.
“The reservoir’s usable storage is still too low to support increased hydropower generation sustainably, especially given the unpredictability of regional rainfall patterns,” Maumbi stated.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by power rationing to households, businesses, and the economy, Maumbi reiterated ZESCO commitment to protecting the long-term functionality of Lake Kariba as a vital resource.
He said the company was actively pursuing diversification strategies, including significant investments in solar energy, to reduce reliance on hydropower.
ZESCO expressed gratitude to the Zambezi River Authority for its critical role in monitoring and managing Lake Kariba’s water levels.
Maumbi also urged Zambians to adopt electricity-saving practices, noting that collective efforts were vital to safeguarding the lake’s sustainability.
“We hope the rains will continue to replenish the reservoir, and we assure the public that Zesco will act responsibly to secure the lake’s future for generations to come,” he added.
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