Bulawayo dams run low

Four of Bulawayo's six supply dams are holding less than 46 percent of their capacity, raising concerns that the city council could introduce stricter water shedding measures to conserve dwindling supplies.

Statistics released by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority on Tuesday show that Inyankuni Dam is at 28 percent capacity, while Umzingwane stands at 32.4 percent. Lower Ncema is at 39.1 percent, with Upper Ncema at 45 percent.

The situation comes as residents brace for the possibility of tighter water rationing amid concerns that the El Niño weather pattern could result in below-average rainfall during the current rainy season.

However, Mtshabezi Dam, which spilled for the first time since 2017 during the previous rainy season, remains relatively full at 99.1 percent capacity. Insiza Dam, also known as Mayfair, is at 80 percent.

Bulawayo United Residents Association chairperson Winos Dube urged residents to use water sparingly and report leaking pipes and bursts to the city council promptly.

"We are told by the weather experts the El Niño weather pattern will affect the country so the rains will not be good this season," said Dube.

He warned that water losses through damaged infrastructure could worsen the situation, urging residents to report leaks before thousands of litres are wasted.

The call comes as Bulawayo continues to face pressure on its water supply, with authorities expected to prioritise conservation as dam levels remain low ahead of the anticipated rainfall challenges.