NamWater in consultation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform has approved the request by the Hardap Farmers Association to increase irrigation supply at the Hardap Scheme to 100%, following a comprehensive dry-run analysis and positive inflows into the Hardap Dam.
The recent inflows have improved the dam’s capacity to 22.1%, allowing irrigation activities to proceed at full capacity while ensuring sustainable water supply for the region. This decision will help sustain livelihoods and preserve jobs in Mariental and surrounding areas, strengthening the local economy and agricultural productivity.
Effective immediately, irrigation supply at the Hardap Scheme will be set at 100% of irrigable land, subject to the following conditions:
• Total supply volume: 48 million m³ per annum (4 million m³ per month).
• Irrigation water availability: Sufficient until end of September 2025.
• Potable water security: Adequate supply will remain for domestic use until February 2027.
• Ongoing monitoring: NamWater will conduct regular dry-run analyses to safeguard potable water availability, even in the absence of further inflows for two rainy seasons.
NamWater urges farmers to continue adopting water-efficient irrigation practices to support long-term water security. While this decision provides immediate relief and economic benefits, responsible water management remains a collective priority.
NamWater urges farmers to continue adopting water-efficient irrigation practices to support long-term water security.
