Authorities have warned that communities along the Okavango River are facing a potential flood threat following an early and steady rise in water levels.
Okavango District Commissioner, William Keareng has advised residents of Ikoga and Etsha 13 to remain alert and take precautionary measures, including relocating to safer areas where necessary as they are the ones usually affected by floods mostly.
The unusual increase in the river, which began earlier than expected, has raised concerns that low-lying areas may soon be affected by flooding, particularly in villages situated along the riverbanks. The previous floods happened in the year 2010 and had severely damaged property of people living along the river banks.
Addressing a Kgotla meeting, Keareng has urged those living close to the river and its channels to move early to avoid possible danger. He warned that delaying relocation could put lives, property and livestock at risk.
“Residents living near the river or its streams should relocate in time to protect their lives, property and livestock,” he said.
Keareng further warned those who were previously relocated during the 2010 floods and returned to their homes when the situation became better to also be alert. The district commissioner revealed that some arable fields have already been submerged before harvesting, highlighting the growing impact of the rising levels on livelihoods.
For his part, the Deputy Officer Commanding for District No 17 Superintendent Ogolotse Tampa explained that any resident at risk who refuses to relocate will be forced to do so.
Meanwhile, a senior official from the Department of Water and Sanitation in Gumare, Goitseone Kebopetswe, said the current situation is linked to increased inflows from upstream countries. He explained that the Okavango River, which draws its waters from Angola and Namibia is currently experiencing high volumes, resulting in rising levels downstream.
“The river started rising in December last year and has been increasing steadily up to now,” he said. Kebopetswe noted that the river level currently stands at 2.9 metres for the month of March, which is considered very high for this period.
However, he added that water levels typically begin to decrease in April each year, offering some relief if normal patterns are maintained. Despite this, authorities remain cautious, warning that communities in flood-prone areas should not delay taking preventive action.
The early rise of the river has once again highlighted the vulnerability of settlements along the Okavango Delta, where seasonal flooding continues to pose a threat to both livelihoods and infrastructure.
