In May 2024, Von Bach Dam — the capital's primary reservoir — fell to just 11% capacity. The government declared a national state of emergency.
The cold Benguela Current chills the coastal air, blocking rainfall. Namibia receives just 250mm annually — one of the lowest in sub-Saharan Africa.
Of all the rain that falls, only 2% reaches a permanent river. The rest evaporates before it can be stored.
Namibia's worst drought in a century struck all 14 regions simultaneously — the first time in recorded history. 1.2 million people (40% of the population) faced acute food insecurity.
To relieve dwindling water sources, the government authorised the culling of 723 wild animals — including 83 elephants. Water rationing was introduced in Windhoek.
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