We may not claim to be hydrologists or water experts, but with our umbilical cord safely buried on the shores of the Zambezi River, and having grown up swimming or fishing while dodging crocodiles, we understand a thing or two about the movement and distribution of water.
Our Nyachipopa Royal Village, home to the Chief Ishima Palace, is situated approximately 250 meters from the mighty Zambezi River, with two lakes nestled in between. As the river winds its way to the Indian Ocean, several lakes are scattered along its path in the Zambezi district, each with exotic and sweet-sounding names such as Chinanbumba, Isolu, and Musekelembwa.
The Natural Flow of the Zambezi River
When the rainy season begins, the Zambezi River does not immediately overflow its banks. It takes several weeks before it completely spills over into the plains and submerges the lakes. Despite the heavenly taps opening in November, the river in this part of the country only starts experiencing significant flooding between February and March before feeding into the lakes.
A crucial fact to recognize is that most of the water that fills the Kariba Dam originates from Angola. This means that it takes a considerable period before the Zambezi River deposits enough water into the Kariba Dam to impact its water levels significantly.
The Loadshedding Paradox Amidst Heavy Rains
This year, we have been blessed with abundant rainfall. However, there remains widespread confusion among the public regarding continued electricity loadshedding despite these good rains. As the saying goes, “people perish due to lack of knowledge.”
It is, therefore, understandable when ordinary citizens—whether on buses, in markets, or on the streets—question the logic behind power shortages when water appears to be in plenty.
Call for Clearer Communication
To the Minister of Energy and ZESCO: it is time to step up and explain these dynamics to the people. Clear and transparent communication about how water levels in the Zambezi, its journey to Kariba, and the impact on power generation would go a long way in addressing public concerns. People need to understand why, despite the heavy rains, loadshedding persists and what measures are being taken to improve energy security.