BY SIFISO NHLABATSI
MBABANE – Eswatini’s major dams are recording impressive water levels, with four of the country’s key reservoirs already above full capacity and overflowing ahead of the anticipated dry summer season.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy said Lubovane, Maguga, Mnjoli and Hawane dams are currently above 100 per cent full and spilling, while Luphohlo Dam stands at 93.47 per cent.
The ministry attributed the high levels to above-normal rainfall received between January and May 2026, releases from dams in South Africa, conserved water use and continued rainfall experienced in the country between September 27 and 30.
It said the current levels were expected to remain high as the country enters the summer months.
However, despite the impressive water reserves, the ministry has urged the nation to conserve water, warning that the October-to-April period is expected to bring below-normal rainfall and extended high temperatures.
“The nation is therefore encouraged to adhere to established water-use standards and minimise wasteful practices during the anticipated dry period,” the ministry stated.
The ministry has also urged households to take advantage of the recent rains by harvesting rainwater into tanks.
Meanwhile, members of the public have been cautioned against crossing rivers during and after rainfall, particularly at low-lying bridges and other known crossing points.
People have further been warned against entering rivers when the water is muddy, unclear or above knee height due to risks posed by uneven riverbeds, slippery rocks, strong currents and crocodiles.
The ministry has also called on the public to protect the country’s water resources by avoiding pollution through waste disposal and other contaminants.
The latest situation comes as the country moves from a period of strong rainfall into a potentially hot and drier summer season.
