SWAZILAND GOVERNMENT Telephone: (+268) 24046244, Ministry of Natural Resources & Energy 24045376 P. O. Box 57, Fax: (+268)24044851/24047252 Mbabane, E-mail:
[email protected] Swaziland 20th January, 2016. UPDATE FROM THE MINISTER ON THE DROUGHT AND CURRENT WATER SCARCITY BACKGROUND 1. Swaziland and the Southern African region is currently undergoing a very serious drought situation. Climate Change has worsened the situation and the country has been experiencing below average rainfall in the past three (3) years. We are advised this severe drought along with a scorching heat wave (El Nino) is one of the strongest on record, and is unfortunately unyielding. 2. Our current state of water storage across the country is seriously below the long term averages observed over the past five (5) years. This situation is as a result of the low river flows due to the lack of sufficient rainfall to recharge our river systems to fill up the dams. Currently our four (4) major dams; namely Hawane, Maguga, Mnjoli and Lubovane are recording very low levels of water storage. These dams are currently recording 6%, 35%, 6 % and 67% respectively. Government notes that all the five major river basins of the country have been greatly affected. In the Ngwavuma Basin there is currently no irrigation taking place as the river has since dried up. The Mbuluzi, Lusutfu, Lomati and Komati are also quickly following suit. While the situation calls for the implementation of robust measures; the Ministry is aware of the impact the complete 1 suspension of commercial irrigation in these river systems would have on the national economy and the country’s commitment to international markets.