River Zambezi & The Batoka Gorge Project
Context:
Zambia and Zimbabwe have recently pledged seed capital to push forward the Batoka Gorge Hydro Electric Scheme (BGHES) on the Zambezi River.
This decision comes despite strong warnings from environmentalists and researchers about the project's long-term viability due to climate change
The Batoka Gorge Hydro Electric Scheme (BGHES)
It is a 2,400 MW hydropower project located on the Zambezi River, a short distance downstream from Victoria Falls.
It is a bi-national project shared between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The objective is to supply 1,200 MW to each country, alleviating severe power deficits in the region.
Concerns:
Climate Viability:
Studies indicate that climate change is causing erratic rainfall and increased evapotranspiration, leading to declining water levels in the Zambezi.
Research suggests that reduced river flows could make the project financially unviable, potentially failing to reach anticipated production levels even under favorable conditions.
The project is managed by the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), which also oversees the existing Kariba Dam.
Geographical Significance of the Zambezi River:
It is Africa's fourth-longest river (after the Nile, Congo, and Niger) and the longest east-flowing river in Africa.
It originates in Zambia and flows through Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, eventually emptying into the Indian Ocean.
The river already hosts two major hydroelectric dams:
Kariba Dam (shared by Zambia and Zimbabwe)
Cahora Bassa (in Mozambique).
It is home to Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls and a UNESCO World Heritage site.