Capital lifts water restrictions...
... but careful water use urged
Windhoek residents can breathe a small sigh of relief, for now at least, after the municipality announced the lifting of restrictions following substantial improvements in water reserves.This development, which marks a return to 'Normal Water Supply – Category A' status, was confirmed during last week's ordinary council meeting.
The move comes after above-average rainfall during the 2024/2025 rainy season, which replenished Windhoek's primary water sources. The three key dams feeding Windhoek - Swakoppoort, Von Bach, and Omatako - currently stand at a combined storage capacity of 86.2%.
Effective since Monday, the 15% water-saving requirement previously in force under Category D of the City’s Water Management Plan was revoked, along with the associated surcharge tariffs.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,” council representatives noted during the session, attributing the change in water status to both favourable rainfall and strategic water recycling through the Windhoek Goreangab Operating Company (WINGOC).
As of early May, the Swakoppoort Dam stood at 99% capacity, Von Bach at 81.3%, and Omatako at 72.8%.
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,” the City said in a statement.
Public education campaigns and water conservation awareness initiatives will continue.