Rise in Kariba Water Levels Brings Relief as Zambia and Zimbabwe Ease Power Deficits

Zambia’s Energy Minister Makozo Chikote has hailed strengthened cooperation between Zambia and Zimbabwe for helping to stabilise power generation during a year marked by severe drought and electricity shortages.

Speaking at the 43rd Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) Council of Ministers meeting held in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, the minister expressed gratitude on behalf of the Zambian Government to the Zambezi River Authority for its technical guidance, coordination and prudent management of Lake Kariba under extremely challenging conditions.

Mr Chikote said 2025 had been a difficult year for the energy sector following reduced inflows into Lake Kariba caused by prolonged drought, but noted that close collaboration between the two riparian states helped prevent a deeper power crisis. He commended technical teams from both countries for working tirelessly to manage the reservoir and balance electricity generation with long-term sustainability.

As part of these efforts, the two countries jointly agreed to increase annual water allocations for power generation from 25 million cubic metres to 28 million cubic metres during the year, a move that helped stabilise electricity supply. The minister confirmed that water allocations for 2026 have now been further increased to 30 million cubic metres, reflecting improved hydrological conditions and growing confidence in reservoir management.

Mr Chikote also disclosed that Zambia’s importation of 65 megawatts of electricity from Zimbabwe played a key role in mitigating domestic power deficits during peak shortages, helping to cushion households and businesses from more severe load management.

He further welcomed recent signs of recovery at Lake Kariba, noting that marginal rises in water levels have been recorded due to increased rainfall across the catchment area. The development, he said, provides cautious optimism for improved generation prospects in the coming period, although continued discipline in water usage remains critical.

The Energy Minister praised ZRA for its efficiency and professionalism in managing Lake Kariba, stressing that sustainable water and power management is essential for economic stability and regional energy security.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both Zambia and Zimbabwe to deepen cooperation in shared water resources management, as the two countries continue to work jointly toward ending persistent power deficits and strengthening energy resilience in the face of climate-related shocks.