By Ncaba Ntshakala
Farmers will be pleased to learn that the continuous rainfall experienced by the country has boosted river flows and dam levels.
This update comes after months of high temperatures, which have significantly depleted water levels in the country’s primary reservoirs and river systems.
This boost means there will be enough water for irrigation and stock farmers will not lack water for their animals.
An abundance of harvest and healthy stock results in self-sustainability for the country, thus resulting in economic growth.
RELATED: Dam levels continue dropping amid dry season
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy has provided a detailed update on the current status of Eswatini’s rivers and national dams as of December 2024, where it expressed the effects of persistent dry conditions and recent rainfall.
As of December 23, 2024, the national dams showed varying levels of recovery due to rains received during the week of December 16–22.
The Luphohlo Dam recorded the most significant improvement, with its capacity rising from 30.86 per cent to 43.84 per cent. However, other major dams such as Maguga, Mnjoli, and Lubovane experienced only modest increases, ranging between 0.86 per cent and 1.89 per cent.
This mixed recovery highlights the continued reliance on additional rainfall and cross-border water releases to stabilize dam levels.
The Ministry’s report also highlighted the challenges faced by the country’s river systems, which have shown a sharp decline in flows from September to mid-December.
Despite recent rains, some rivers remain critically low, such as the Komati at Mananga (2.50 m³/s) and the Ngwavuma at Ngololweni, which barely recorded flow levels.
Conversely, high flows were reported in the Mkhondvo River at Nkwene (23.04 m³/s), prompting the Ministry to issue extreme caution for areas downstream, including the Usuthu-Mkhondvo confluence and regions stretching from Sidvokodvo to Big Bend.
The Ministry has issued specific guidelines to the public to ensure safety during this critical period. Residents are advised to avoid crossing rivers during and after rainfall events, particularly in areas with high flows or where visibility is reduced.
RELATED: Lebombo border closure costing SA about E10 million/day
Low-lying bridges and muddy water crossings should be strictly avoided, as these may pose significant safety hazards, including the potential presence of crocodiles.
In light of the current conditions, the Ministry urged emaSwati and stakeholders to adopt efficient water use practices and adhere to allowable water usage rates.
These measures are critical to preserving water resources as the country awaits further rainfall.
The Acting Principal Secretary of the Ministry, Sicelo Nxumalo, emphasized the Ministry’s readiness to provide additional support during the festive season.
He called on civil society and all stakeholders to remain vigilant, particularly as the hydrological and rainy season progresses, with the hope that increased rainfall will further replenish the nation’s water resources.
