Gaselemogwe Senai, Chief Executive Officer of the Water Utilities Corporation, has provided an update on the current water levels in Botswana’s major dams. The report highlighted both significant improvements and ongoing concerns regarding the country’s water resources.
Dikgathong Dam, Botswana’s largest reservoir, has seen a notable rise in capacity, increasing from 65% to 86%. Similarly, Letsibogo Dam has made impressive gains, with its levels surging from 32% to 72%. These increases have been attributed to favorable rainfall during the current season, bringing much-needed relief to these critical water sources.
However, Gaborone Dam, which supplies the capital city and surrounding areas, remains a cause for concern. Currently, it sits at just 36% capacity. According to Senai, the dam’s recovery has been hindered by severe weather conditions prior to the rainy season, coupled with the presence of over 200 smaller dams in the vicinity. These smaller dams intercept significant inflows, further reducing the water reaching Gaborone Dam.
Despite these challenges, Senai expressed hope that the anticipated Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi could bring much-needed rainfall to the region and positively impact the water levels in Gaborone Dam. “We are monitoring the situation closely and remain optimistic about the potential impact of the cyclone on our water reserves,” he said.
The state of Gaborone Dam has prompted calls for more innovative water management strategies, including the construction of new reservoirs and policies to ensure equitable water distribution. Senai emphasized that efforts to secure long-term water supply remain a top priority for the Water Utilities Corporation.
As the country continues to navigate the complexities of water management, residents are encouraged to use water sparingly and remain vigilant about conservation efforts. The updates on dam levels offer a mix of optimism and caution, with the hope that upcoming weather patterns will further boost Botswana’s critical water resources.
