Martin Endjala
The Central Area of Namibia (CAN) is on the brink of a severe water shortage.
The lack of rainfall has put the region at risk, prompting Namibia Water Corporation Limited (NamWater) and the City of Windhoek (CoW) to call for immediate implementation of water conservation measures to sustain water supply across CAN.
Recent data from NamWater and CoW, as of January 22, 2024, indicates that water levels in the three primary dams – Omatako, Von Bach, and Swakoppoort – have fallen to 22.2 percent of their combined capacity. This is a significant decrease from the 39.9 percent recorded at the same time in 2023.
The region is experiencing a challenging rainy season with no significant water inflow into the dams. This situation has been exacerbated by high temperatures since October 2023, leading to water consumption exceeding planned savings targets, and thus depleting water reserves faster than anticipated.
The persistently low water levels and disappointing rainfall suggest that replenishing water supplies for two consecutive rainy seasons may no longer be feasible. This scenario necessitates the implementation of water demand management measures.
Authorities are urging consumers and stakeholders to comply with these measures, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in managing this crisis.
Both NamWater and CoW are committed to closely monitoring the situation and ensuring water security in CAN.
In 2023, during NamWater’s annual stakeholder workshop, the effectiveness of previous strategies was assessed, and new plans were developed to ensure water security for at least the next two rainy seasons.
These strategies include a 10% reduction in water consumption and adjustments based on long-term statistical models predicting water inflow into the dams.
The primary water supply for CAN comes from an integrated system consisting of three interconnected dams, heavily dependent on favourable climatic conditions.
To supplement this, the system is augmented with water from the Karst aquifer at Kombat and Berg Aukas mines near Grootfontein, the Windhoek aquifer, and the Goreangab Water Reclamation Plant.
These additional sources have historically enabled continuous water supply during challenging dry seasons.
A team of experts is continually evaluating the security of CAN’s water supply, revising operations, adjusting strategies, and keeping stakeholders informed.
This proactive approach is crucial for navigating the water crisis and maintaining supply in the face of climatic uncertainties.
