Mariental optimistic about Hardap Dam’s rising water level

With the Hardap Dam’s water level now at 22.1%, there is hope for the town’s water supply, Mariental mayor Cherien Kock said last week.

The Namibia Water Corporation (NamWater) yesterday confirmed that the dam is at 22.1% of its capacity following good rains.

“I can only express heartfelt gratitude, happiness, joy and confidence for the recent water level, because this water plays a vital role in sustaining our community,” Kock said.

“On behalf of the community of Mariental, we appreciate the dam’s increased water level. During the time when the water level was very low, the cloud of drought was over us.

“We felt helpless and unable to see a path forward, but this news brings hope.

We are praying for more rain and more inflow of water, and now farmers can continue with their farming operations.

“Hopefully, we won’t have the same water issues we experienced here last year,” she said.

According to NamWater’s dam bulletin, the Hardap Dam’s water level was at 14.8% a week ago.

Maria Boois, a local entrepreneur, said the town’s agricultural sector would benefit from the available water.

“We as the community of Mariental are elated about the current status of the Hardap Dam as it plays a pivotal role in our daily lives, especially in the agriculture sector.

“Last year the irrigation water supply tap was cut, and it was a struggle for farmers. Many people lost their jobs, but now the farmers can continue their farming activities, and people can also start fishing,” she said.

Another community member, Eltrute Muchuana, said the latest water level report brought renewed hope.

“The only thing the people in the Hardap region can do, especially the inhabitants of Mariental, is to pray for more rain,” she said. – Nampa

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