After several years of little or no rain, the country and its inhabitants have been longing for it. Farmers have been waiting for the rain, as have reservoirs, some of which have fallen below 20 percent in capacity. Water levels only rise when the dry rivers supply them with water during heavy rains.

We experienced the first heavy rainfall a week ago on our tour in the south and in the Kalahari (see previous post on our website). But for a few days now, it has been raining all over the country, and for a long time. This often leads to problems because the sewerage system is inadequate and the water cannot drain away. So, the water backs up, and it’s not uncommon for entire streets to be closed. Or for bridges get damaged or swept away completely

The roofs of houses are also not built to withstand prolonged rain. Gutters are just as rare here as devices for draining water around the house. So, after a few days, houses and huts are standing in huge pools of water. And roofs, which are mostly leaky, begin to leak. But all of this is stoically acknowledged – the main thing is that the dams are filled. And according to the AZ (Allgemeine Zeitung) of March 21, 2025, they are now over 75% full. Thanks to the rainy season!

PS: If you want to know more about the rainfall in Namibia, look here.