MARIENTAL – NamWater last week announced the resumption of irrigation water supply from the Hardap Dam. 

The flow resumes today. 

NamWater, in a media statement on Wednesday, said the decision was approved by water minister Calle Schlettwein, in support of national priorities to promote agricultural productivity and economic stability in the region. 

The Hardap Irrigation Scheme plays a vital role in supporting agricultural producers and the local economy. However, the irrigation water supply was suspended in October 2024 after the dam’s water level dropped to a critical 5.5%. 

Recent inflows have raised the dam’s capacity to 16.6% as of 13 January 2025, prompting the Hardap Farmers Association to request the resumption of irrigation water supply. 

The association proposed irrigating 80% of arable land, while implementing a 20% water-saving plan to promote sustainable usage. 

The chairperson of the Hardap Farmers Association, Dawie de Klerk, expressed his joy over the announcement during an interview with Nampa, highlighting the potential for job-creation at the Hardap Irrigation Scheme. 

“I am happy about the announcement. This means people can be employed by the scheme, although the harvest might take some time. We are relieved with the news, and looking forward to more rain in the region,” said De Klerk. 

NamWater has conducted a thorough assessment of the Hardap Dam water availability, and its potential to meet both irrigation and potable water demands. 

The analysis determined irrigation water can be supplied with a 20% demand reduction, allowing 80% of arable land to be irrigated until July 2025, while maintaining sufficient potable water for Mariental and surrounding communities. 

The water utility resumed system loading on 15 January, to remove air from the irrigation system before the supply resumed today. 

Farmers were encouraged to adopt water-efficient agricultural practices to ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources. -Nampa