ZINWA calls for efficient use of dam water

THE volume of water in major dams has started declining as demand for irrigation surges with 35 percent of the water having already been released towards sustenance of the summer crop as a result of the current prolonged dry spell.

According to an update from the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA), this has resulted in the deterioration of the water security situation for both domestic and agricultural purposes.

Zinwa corporate communications and marketing manager, Mrs Marjorie Munyonga said following the current dry spell, water levels in major dams have started declining as demand for irrigation water has been picking up as a significant number of farmers are resorting to irrigation to sustain their summer crop.

“As at February 22, 2024, at least 35 percent more water had been released from the dams for irrigation than in a normal rainy season, while the national dam level average had declined to 84. 2 percent from 84. 4 percent on February 14, 2024. “Declines in water levels due to increased releases for irrigation have been noted in dams such as Osborne, Tugwi-Mukosi, Manyuchi, Mazvikadei, Sebakwe, Manyame and Chivero,” she said.

Mrs Munyonga said the proportion of cities, towns, growth points and rural service centres whose raw water sources hold sufficient water to last them for a period of at least 21 months now stands at 51. 1 percent.

The proportion of centres whose water supply dams have water enough to last between 12 months and 20. 9 months is now at 38.3 percent.

“A proportion of 10. 9 percent of cities, towns, growth points and rural service centres is water insecure with their raw water supply dams holding water that can last them for less than 12 months. The proportion is expected to grow should the current drought conditions persist.

“These developments point to a very critical water security situation for the country. Under these circumstances, the need for sustainable, efficient and sound management of the limited available water cannot be overemphasized,” she said. Mrs Munyonga appealed to individuals and entities intending to draw water from national dams for the winter cropping season to apply for or to renew their water abstraction agreements as required by the law.

She said these water abstraction agreements make it possible for Zinwa to properly allocate the available water among the competing needs of diverse users and stakeholders.

“In the interest of food security and safeguarding compliant farmers and other raw water users, no water shall be released from the dams for any individual or entity without a water abstraction agreement, while Zinwa will intensify its monitoring capabilities to detect any illegal water use.

“Farmers and other raw water users are therefore encouraged to visit their nearest Zinwa offices for any assistance regarding these water abstraction agreements,” she said.