Windhoek lifts water restrictions
The City of Windhoek announced the lifting of all water usage restrictions following notable improvements in the city’s water reserves after a heavy rainy season.
This relaxation of water restrictions, which marks a return to 'Normal Water Supply – Category A' status, was confirmed last week during Thursday’s ordinary council meeting.
The move comes after sustained above-average rainfall during the 2024/2025 rainy season, which replenished the city’s primary water sources.
The three key dams feeding Windhoek currently boast robust water levels, with combined storage at 86.2%.
As of early May, the Swakoppoort Dam stood at 99% capacity, Von Bach at 81.3% and Omatako at 72.8%.
Water remains precious
Effective as of Monday, the 15% water-saving requirement previously in force under Category D of the City’s water management plan was revoked, along with the associated surcharge tariffs.
The City will simultaneously commence the managed artificial recharge of the Windhoek Southern Aquifer (WMARS) to enhance long-term water security.
“This is a positive milestone for the capital,” noted council representatives last week, attributing the change in water status to both favourable rainfall and strategic water recycling through the Windhoek Goreangab Operating Company (WINGOC).
Despite this encouraging outlook, city officials remain cautious.
The situation will be reassessed in May 2026 based on updated dam levels. In the meantime, the municipality urges residents to continue responsible water usage.
“While we are no longer under restrictions, water remains a precious and limited resource in our region,” a statement by the municipality noted.
This relaxation of water restrictions, which marks a return to 'Normal Water Supply – Category A' status, was confirmed last week during Thursday’s ordinary council meeting.
The move comes after sustained above-average rainfall during the 2024/2025 rainy season, which replenished the city’s primary water sources.
The three key dams feeding Windhoek currently boast robust water levels, with combined storage at 86.2%.
As of early May, the Swakoppoort Dam stood at 99% capacity, Von Bach at 81.3% and Omatako at 72.8%.
Water remains precious
Effective as of Monday, the 15% water-saving requirement previously in force under Category D of the City’s water management plan was revoked, along with the associated surcharge tariffs.
The City will simultaneously commence the managed artificial recharge of the Windhoek Southern Aquifer (WMARS) to enhance long-term water security.
“This is a positive milestone for the capital,” noted council representatives last week, attributing the change in water status to both favourable rainfall and strategic water recycling through the Windhoek Goreangab Operating Company (WINGOC).
Despite this encouraging outlook, city officials remain cautious.
The situation will be reassessed in May 2026 based on updated dam levels. In the meantime, the municipality urges residents to continue responsible water usage.
“While we are no longer under restrictions, water remains a precious and limited resource in our region,” a statement by the municipality noted.
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