By MAIMBO MWEEMBA
The iconic Victoria Falls, once a thundering spectacle of natural beauty, has slowed to a trickle, leaving local businesses and tourism in shambles. Climate change and hydroelectric power diversion have combined to reduce water levels to an all-time low, devastating the livelihoods of traders and tour operators.
Mutakela Sialutaba, Chairperson of the Mukuni Victoria Falls Curio Association, lamented the impact on local businesses. “The drought has severely affected our business. Tourists come to witness the mighty falls, but when they find it dry, they leave disappointed and frustrated.” The Curio shops, heavily reliant on tourism, are struggling to stay afloat.
Vice Chairman Mike Munyinda noted that the Zimbabwean side of the falls has become a more attractive option, drawing tourists away from the Zambian side. “We’re at a disadvantage,” he said.
Hydroelectric power generation controls the water flow to the falls, resulting in significantly reduced water levels during peak power generation. Traders are appealing to tour operators to include visits to the Curio shops in their itineraries and calling for alternative energy solutions, such as solar or wind power, to reduce reliance on hydroelectric power.
Tourists, both local and international, expressed disappointment at the lack of water. Cruz Fuerta said, “It’s a new experience to see the rock formation, but not what I expected.” Local tourists eager to experience the famous “smoke that thunders” are also left disappointed.
As the falls continue to dwindle, the future of local businesses hangs in the balance. Will innovative solutions and alternative energy save the tourism sector, or will Victoria Falls remain a shadow of its former self?
