Bulawayo Dams Show Gains, Worries Persist

21 January 2026

By Colleta Bell

Bulawayo’s supply dams have recorded improved inflows since the start of the rainy season, offering cautious relief to the city’s water situation, even as concerns remain over low dam levels.

Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) figures show average inflows have risen by about seven percent, translating to nearly 28 million cubic metres of water, an improvement from the same period last season. Bulawayo’s average dam level now stands at 43.4 percent, up from just under 30 percent last year.

Speaking to SkyzMetro FM, the ZINWA’s Head of Corporate Communications and Marketing, Mrs Marjorie Munyonga, said while dam levels may still look low, the inflows are stronger than last season and point to improving water security.

However, Mayor Senator David Coltart warned that most dams remain below 50 percent capacity during the recently held Full Council Agenda Meeting. He cited critically low levels at Inyankuni which is standing at around 16,65% and Umzingwane dams which is at 27,2% , stressing the need for long-term solutions to Bulawayo’s water challenges.

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