Angola’s Calucuve Dam Set for July Completion to Boost Water Supply, Agriculture, and Drought Resilience
The Calucuve Dam, located in the municipality of Cuvelai in Cunene province, is expected to be completed in July, according to the Ministry of Energy and Water.
The project is part of Angola’s broader efforts to improve water access, strengthen drought resilience, and support regional development in the south of the country.
Major water infrastructure project
The Calucuve Dam includes a 31.69-metre-high and 2,184-metre-long dam wall, supported by an aqueduct of approximately 240 kilometres and 22 water reservoirs. These components are designed to improve the capture, storage, and distribution of water resources across the region.
Once completed, the reservoir will be able to store around 141 million cubic metres of water, significantly enhancing water availability in one of Angola’s driest provinces.
Social and economic impact
In its initial phase, the project is expected to provide reliable water supply to more than 80,000 people, improving living conditions and access to essential services.
It will also support over 200,000 head of cattle, strengthening livestock farming and contributing to food security and rural livelihoods.
Authorities say the infrastructure will help expand irrigated agriculture and stimulate broader economic activity by enabling new productive uses of water in the region.
Part of national drought response plan
The project is being implemented under the Program to Combat the Effects of Drought in Southern Angola (PCESSA), which focuses on addressing chronic water scarcity in the southern provinces.
Officials say the Calucuve Dam will play a key role in improving long-term water security, supporting agricultural development, and increasing the resilience of communities affected by recurring drought conditions.
