The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) has announced a landmark achievement in the ongoing US$294 million Kariba Dam Rehabilitation Project, confirming the successful completion of the final leakage test on Sluice 6 of the dam’s spillway. The milestone represents a decisive step toward safeguarding one of Southern Africa’s most critical sources of hydroelectric power and ensuring the long-term stability of the structure.
The project, which has been underway for several years, is jointly funded by a consortium of international partners including the European Union, the World Bank, the African Development Bank, the Government of Sweden, and the ZRA itself on behalf of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The rehabilitation effort combines grants and loans, highlighting both the global recognition of the dam’s importance and the regional commitment to its sustainability.
Last Thursday’s test marked the final technical check in a series of safety procedures designed to modernise the dam’s spillway system. Engineers and technical specialists supervised the controlled release of approximately 1,500 cubic metres of water through the refurbished sluice. Crucially, the exercise revealed no leakage, confirming that all six of the dam’s spillway gates are now fully operational.
“The successful completion of this final test confirms that all six refurbished sluices are now fully functional — a critical step in strengthening the dam’s integrity and ensuring the long-term safety, resilience and reliability of this vital regional power source,” ZRA said in a statement.
The authority praised the efforts of the diverse team of engineers, technicians, and contractors who have been working tirelessly on the project, calling the successful test “another historic step forward in securing Kariba Dam for generations to come.”
Kariba Dam Rehabilitation Reaches Major Milestone With Final Spillway Test
Completed in 1959, the Kariba Dam remains the world’s largest man-made reservoir by volume. It serves as a vital shared resource for Zimbabwe and Zambia, powering hydroelectric stations on both sides of the Zambezi River. Collectively, the Kariba hydro schemes provide more than half of the two countries’ electricity needs, while also contributing to regional power pools that benefit neighbouring nations.
For the communities and industries dependent on Kariba’s electricity, the milestone offers reassurance that the region’s energy backbone is being carefully secured. Both Zambia and Zimbabwe have in recent years struggled with power shortages linked to low lake levels, underscoring the need for investment in sustainable and reliable infrastructure.
The scale and complexity of the rehabilitation work has drawn support from international development partners, with funding designed not only to address technical needs but also to reinforce regional cooperation. The European Union and World Bank have been among the largest contributors, while the African Development Bank and the Swedish government have provided additional financial and technical backing.
Officials say the blend of grants and concessional loans is a reflection of the dam’s importance, not just to Zambia and Zimbabwe but to the wider Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. For the ZRA, which jointly manages the structure on behalf of the two countries, the rehabilitation represents both a technical challenge and a political symbol of unity.
With the final spillway gate now tested and confirmed functional, attention will continue to focus on other aspects of the rehabilitation programme, particularly the reshaping of the plunge pool. That work aims to reduce the erosive force of water being discharged, preventing the risk of undermining the dam wall.
Experts stress that the safety measures are not only about preventing disaster but also about enhancing the dam’s long-term resilience against the effects of climate change. Periods of drought and heavy rainfall have placed new strains on the Zambezi River system, making effective water management more crucial than ever.
For the communities and industries dependent on Kariba’s electricity, the milestone offers reassurance that the region’s energy backbone is being carefully secured. Both Zambia and Zimbabwe have in recent years struggled with power shortages linked to low lake levels, underscoring the need for investment in sustainable and reliable infrastructure.
As the ZRA looks ahead to completing the remaining components of the project, officials say the rehabilitation will not only extend the life of the dam but also strengthen confidence in the region’s ability to manage shared natural resources.
“Kariba Dam continues to stand as a symbol of cooperation, resilience, and sustainable development. This achievement is not only a technical success but also a reaffirmation of the spirit of unity between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and with the international community that has stood with us,” the authority added.
With the successful completion of the final spillway test, the Kariba Dam Rehabilitation Project has crossed one of its most critical thresholds. The development is expected to pave the way for the project’s conclusion in the coming years, ensuring that one of Africa’s most important infrastructure assets remains safe, functional, and productive for future generations.
Source- Bulawayo24
