ODMP Hydrology and Water Resources Inception Report

Government of Kingdom of Denmark Government of Republic of Botswana
Ministry of Foreign Affairs National Conservation and Strategy Agency

Danida Department of Water Affairs
Ref No: 104.Botswana.1.MFS.8 Harry Oppenheimer Okavango Research Centre
Okavango Delta Management Plan

Hydrology and Water Resources
INCEPTION REPORT
December 2003
Scanagri Denmark A/S

DHI Water and Environment
Hedeselskabet
Geographic Resource Analysis and Science A/S
CSIR
Liebenberg and Stander
Engineering Hydrological and Environmental Services
Okavango Delta Management Plan Hydrology and Water Resources
OKAVANGO DELTA MANAGEMENT PLAN

HYDROLOGY AND WATER RESOURCES
INCEPTION REPORT
List of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
1.2 Organisation
1.3 Inaugural Workshop and Steering Committee
1.4 Technical Task Force
1.5 Report Structure
2 OBJECTIVE AND OUTPUTS

2.1 Objective
2.2 Outputs
2.3 Quality Assurance
3 METHODOLOGY
3.1 Okavango River Basin and Delta
3.2 Analysis of Existing Conditions
3.3 ODMP Impact Analysis
3.4 Capacity Building in DWA
4 ACTIVITIES
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Data Collection and Processing
4.3 Monitoring Programme
4.4 DWA Modelling Unit
4.5 Topographic Model
4.6 Integrated Hydrologic Model
4.7 Model Application
4.8 Reporting
4.9 Related Okavango Delta Projects
Inception Report page i

Hydrology and Water Resources Okavango Delta Management Plan
List of Contents (cont)
5 INPUTS
5.1 Project Staffing
5.1.1 Consultants
5.1.2 Proposed Staff Changes
5.1.3 DWA Staff
5.2 Equipment
5.2.1 Project Vehicles
5.2.2 Computer Hardware
5.2.3 Computer Software
5.2.4 Office Furniture and Equipment
5.2.5 Monitoring
5.3 Project Finances
5.3.1 Introduction
5.3.2 Danida Project Finances
5.3.3 GoB Support to DWA
6 SUMMARY OF KEY ISSUES

6.1 Introduction
6.2 Improved Monitoring
6.4 Equipment
6.5 Danida Finances
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Project Reports
Scientific Papers
ANNEX A – LOGICAL FRAMEWORK ASSESSMENT
ANNEX B – WORKING PAPERS
page ii Inception Report

List of Figures
1.1 ODMP Components
1.2 Project Organisation
3.1 Okavango River Basin

3.2 Okavango Delta
3.3 Flow Processes in Delta
4.1 Hydrology and Water Resources Activity Schedule

4.2 Distribution of Water Level Gauging Stations in Delta
4.3 Distribution of Boreholes in and around Delta
4.4 Landsat Image of part of Delta
4.5 Schematic Representation of MIKE SHE Model
5.1 Project Staff Schedule

5.2 Computer System for Modelling Unit
List of Tables
5.1 Local Travel Expenses
5.2 DWA Finances
Inception Report page iii

List of Abbreviations and Acronyms

ARB Agricultural Resources Board
CTA Chief Technical Advisor
DAHP Department of Animal Health and Production
Danida Danish International Development Agency
DCP data collection platform (automatic sensing and transmission of measured
data)
DCPF Department of Crop Production and Forestry
DED German Development Service
DGS Department of Geological Surveys
DLUPU District Land Use Planning Unit
DMS Department of Meteorological Services
DSM Department of Surveys and Mapping
DoT Department of Tourism
DTRP Department of Town and Regional Planning
DWA Department of Water Affairs
DWNP Department of Wildlife and National Parks
FTP file transfer protocol
GoB Government of the Republic of Botswana
HOORC Harry Oppenheimer Okavango Research Centre (of the University of
Botswana)
IUCN International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources -
World Conservation Union
KCS Kalahari Conservation Society
LAN local area network
MEWT Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism
MMEWR Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources
NCSA National Conservation and Strategy Agency
NWDC North West District Council
ODIS Okavango Delta Information System
ODMP Okavango Delta Management Plan
OKACOM Okavango River Basin Commission
PPADB Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Board
PMG Project Management Group (for the Okavango Delta Management Plan)
QAP Quality Assurance Plan
TLB Tawana Land Board
VPN virtual private network
page iv Inception Report

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Hydrology and Water Resources is one of the ten components of the Okavango
Delta Management Plan (ODMP), for which NCSA has overall responsibility. The
component is implemented by the Department of Water Affairs (DWA). Together
with the Research and Data Management component implemented by HOORC, the
Hydrology and Water Resources component is supported jointly by the
Governments of Botswana through the Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and
Tourism, and Denmark through Danida. The Danida support is implemented by
Scanagri Denmark A/S and its international and national subconsultants.
In parallel with ODMP, the two components commenced on 1st May 2003 with a
duration of 39 months. The day to day management is carried out by the Team
Leader, supported by national and international specialists each with a series of
short term inputs in various specialities covering information technology, biology,
water resources and remote sensing.
The Team Leader’s long term input is 18 months up to May 2005, thereafter two
months for short term support up to the end of the ODMP project in July 2006. The
Project Office is in DWA, Gaborone, including the DWA Modelling Unit, which
will be the focus for the establishment of the Integrated Hydrologic Model of the
delta.
The ODMP Project Steering Committee is responsible for overseeing the entire
management plan. Technical Task Forces are being constituted for each of the two
components, with the broad role to monitor progress, and guide implementation.
Hydrology and Water Resources

The immediate objective of the Hydrology and Water Resources component is
improved water resources planning, monitoring and evaluation in the Okavango
Delta, based on an enhanced capacity in DWA.
The principal means of analysis for the waters of the Okavango will be an
Integrated Hydrologic Model, with its upstream boundary either at Divundu in
Namibia or Mohembo in Botswana. The waters of the delta fall into three
categories: atmospheric, surface and ground water. There is a close interaction
among these categories. The river flow at Divundu enters a terminal system,
dispersing through the channel and flood plains of the delta and taking two routes:
to the atmosphere by a process of evaporation, and to ground water by a process of
infiltration.
The hydrologic model must have a realistic representation of the complex physical
phenomena governing the delta. This implies a base in the fundamental laws of
physics and an explicit representation of the features. Models developed previously
have conceptual bases, with only an implicit representation of certain key features
such as river channels.
Inception Report page S-1

Monitoring
Basic information on the hydrology of the Okavango Delta is essential for the
management plan to comprehend the processes at work in shaping the delta. The
component has gone to considerable lengths to collect and evaluate these data and
information.
The existing DWA hydrology network in the delta is extensive, though the quality
of the data is poor. The main problems are access to the gauging sites along the
river systems, and disturbance of the stations by wild animals and theft by humans.
The water level gauge boards are not related to a common datum. Overall quality
control is lacking, also with respect to archiving and post processing of the data.
Data collection platforms with automatic sensors and satellite transmission of the
data have fallen into disrepair.
Ground water monitoring in and around the delta is limited to the area around
Maun. The two main holders of data, DWA and DGS, use different databases with
different formats. These should be made compatible. There are no boreholes in the
inner delta, and very few along the eastern margin.
DWA requested DSM to carry out a high accuracy GPS survey of the gauge board
bench marks in the delta, of which there are around 70. Logistic support in the form
of guides, vehicles and boats was provided by DWA. This proved a major
undertaking, and demonstrates a solid cooperation between the two departments.
Emphasising the importance with which DWA regards the ODMP, the survey for an
urgently needed water supply reservoir in the east has been postponed in favour of
the delta survey.
Comprehensive recommendations have been prepared to improve the monitoring
and provide a solid database comprising long term systematic data that capture the
range of hydrologic events, and sequences of events. The data cover the key
systems in the delta: climatic, surface and ground water, and sediment transport.
DWA has a budget of BWP1,390,000 to implement the programme. While
specialist assistance is required for the design and installation, the methods
proposed can be carried out by DWA technical field staff, subject to a review of
staff numbers and training needs.
Topographic Model
The topographic or digital elevation model of the delta will provide the basic terrain
information for the Integrated Hydrologic Model. Remote sensing data and
analyses will be employed to create and validate information on the topography.
The approach combines various data sources including radar altimetry, contour
extraction from shorelines and vegetation maps.
Landsat images provide the basic data, with a resolution of 30m; a large number of
images has been provided by HOORC, as well as a vegetation map. It is anticipated
that the vertical accuracy of the model will be better than ±1.0m.
Page S-2 Inception Report

Existing Conditions in Delta

The Integrated Hydrologic Model will be established using the widely used MIKE
SHE – MIKE 11 modelling package, developed by DHI Water and Environment.
The model will be set up to represent existing conditions in the delta, with the
surface water inflow at Divundu/Mohembo and rainfall over the delta as its primary
inputs. The basic model output will be the variation in surface and ground water
levels throughout the delta.
In addition to providing a comprehensive description of the present behaviour of the
delta, this will also be used as a baseline against which to evaluate future
developments. For this stage of development, the model will not include chemical
and biological parameters.
ODMP Impact Analyses

Given the Integrated Hydrologic Model set up and calibrated to represent existing
conditions in the delta, the model may be applied to simulate scenarios for the
ODMP. Among the scenarios will be upstream water resources developments,
surface and ground water abstraction from the delta, clearing choked channels,
dredging and regional climate changes.
Intercomparisons will be made among the various model output parameters to
assess the impact of potential developments. Flood extent and distribution, and
ground water level and distribution will be main parameters. These may be related
to the biodiversity and vegetation type, though this is seen as an area for research.
Capacity Building in DWA

Training and technology transfer to the DWA Modelling Unit is essential for the
sustainability of management planning in Botswana. This will be carried out on
three fronts:
• Formal courses given by the international specialists in their
respective specialities, assisted by the national experts
• On-the-job training to develop basic skills by DWA staff learning
through doing – these is viewed as the key to the success of
technology transfer
• Overseas training for DWA staff who have shown a particular aptitude
for the modelling tasks
DWA has recently assigned four staff to the Modelling Unit, comprising senior and
experienced hydrologists, complemented by junior staff bringing an ability to learn
quickly and readily assimilate the new technology. To ensure successful on-the-job
training, continuity of staffing and freedom from other responsibilities are essential.
The staff should be assigned specific responsibilities within the unit.
DWA is in the process of procuring computer hardware and software, the latter
from DHI Water and Environment. A training needs assessment will be carried out
for the assigned staff. The progress in assimilating the modelling technology will
Inception Report page S-3

be assessed periodically. Any need for a change of approach or emphasis will be

identified, and corresponding recommendations made.
The DWA Modelling Unit will be established with guidance and supervision from
the international and national consultants. By the end of the Project, the national
consultants will be able to provide long term support to the unit. A close technical
association with the university and HOORC will be fostered to provide long term
support from the academic side. This requires a budget for HOORC to acquire a
university license for a copy of the modelling software.
Related Projects
There are several related projects in the Okavango Delta, recently initiated: the
UNDP/GEF Environmental Protection and Sustainable Management of the
Okavango River Basin, the EU TwinBas basin twinning research project, the
Leseding Project from the University of the Free State focussing on fish ecology
and livelihood sustainability, the Tiger Participation project with the European
Space Agency remotely monitoring the delta and feasibility studies for the Popa
Falls hydropower project.
The Project will cooperate fully with these projects, to enhance outputs and more
closely realise the objectives of ODMP, and an integration of the management of
the entire river basin.
Project Finances
The components are financed jointly by the Governments of Botswana and
Denmark. Danida funds are available for disbursement by the Consultants
according to the planned cash flow. DWA has recently established the procedure
for disbursement of government funds for the procurement of services and
equipment for the Hydrology and Water Resources component.
Page S-4 Inception Report

1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
Hydrology and Water Resources comprises one of the ten components of the
Okavango Delta Management Plan (ODMP), as shown in figure 1.1. The
component is supported jointly by the Government of the Republic of Botswana,
and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark through Danida, alongside the
Research and Data Management1 component.
The Danida support is shared between the two components, and is implemented by
Scanagri Denmark A/S and its subconsultants. These are from Denmark DHI
Water and Environment and Hedeselskabet, from South Africa CSIR, and from
Botswana Liebenberg and Stander, and Engineering Hydrological and
Environmental Services Pty Ltd. The contract with Danida was signed on 20th
December 2002, and the two components commenced on 1st May 2003, with the
arrival of the Team Leader in Gaborone. The two components have a planned
duration of 39 months, to 1st August 2006.
This Inception Report focuses on the Hydrology and Water Resources component.
A separate Inception Report is issued for the Research and Data Management
component.
1.2 Organisation
The Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism (MEWT) is the Executive
Agency having overall national responsibility for the ODMP. The Implementing
Agency is the National Conservation Strategy Agency (NCSA), under the MEWT.
The principal beneficiaries are NCSA and the Department of Water Affairs (DWA)
of the Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources. A number of other
organisations will also benefit from the project, in particular the Harry
Oppenheimer Okavango Research Centre (HOORC) of the University of Botswana.
The organisation of the two components is shown in figure 1.2. The Consultants’
team comprises a long term Team Leader and international and national specialists
each with a series of short term inputs in various fields including information
technology, biology, water resources and remote sensing. The day to day
management of the Component is carried out by the Team Leader, with a total input
of 20 months over the 39 month project period. The Team Leader has additional
responsibilities in respect of technical input to the Hydrology and Water Resources
component.
The Team Leader is responsible for coordination with the Director of DWA, the
Director of HOORC and through the Project Management Group, the Executive
Secretary of NCSA. The schedule, outputs and activities of each stage of the
specialists’ inputs are coordinated by the Team Leader, to whom the specialists are
responsible.
1
This component has been referred to previously as Research, Data Management and Training. As
training is not an output from this component, but is a primary output from the Communications
component, the title of component II is amended to Research and Data Management.
Inception Report page 1-1

1. Policy, planning and strategy (including communication)

National Conservation Strategy Agency (NCSA): National and district level
(District Development Committee and Okavango Wetland Management Committee;
communication in collaboration with Tribal Administration)
2. Research, data management and training

Harry Oppenheimer Okavango Research Centre (HOORC)
3. Hydrology and water resources

Department of Water Affairs (DWA)
4. Wildlife management
Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP)
5. Sustainable tourism
Department of Tourism (DoT)
6. Fisheries and animal health

Department of Animal Health and Production (DAHP)
7. Vegetation resources
Department of Crop Production and Forestry (DCPF),
in association with Agricult ural Resources Board (ARB)
8. Physical planning
Department of Town and Regional Planning (DTRP)
9. Land use planning and land management

Tawana Land Board (TLB) and District Land Use Planning Unit (DLUPU)
10. Local authority services provision

North West District Council (NWDC)
Figure 1.1: ODMP Components

The Team Leader’s office is located in the DWA Headquarters in Gaborone. Here
the DWA Modelling Unit has a large office. The unit is the focus of the
establishment of the Integrated Hydrologic Model of the delta, and the capacity
building in DWA to support the continued development and application of the
model to the ODMP. Four DWA staff have recently been formally assigned to the
unit, which shall shortly also be equipped with computer hardware and software.
page 1-2 Inception Report

Scanagri in association with DHI,

Hedeselskabet and CSIR
INT Team Leader/hydrologist Deputy team leader/biodiversity INT
INT/NAT Surface water Biodiversity & other experts INT/REG/NAT
INT/NAT Ground water IT specialists INT/REG/NAT
INT/NAT River morphologist
INT Water quality
INT/NAT Surface and ground water
INT/NAT Specialist back up
QA Team – Project Director – Project Monitor
Figure 1.2: Consultants’ Team

To ensure the quality of the services rendered, the Consultants will deploy a Quality
Assurance Team, reviewing procedures and all reports and technical documents.
The Project implementation is supported by a Project Director and a Project
Monitor, based in the Consultants’ headquarters in Denmark.
1.3 Inaugural Workshop and Steering Committee

The two components were presented at the ODMP Inaugural Workshop held in
Maun on 7th October 2003. The invitation to Danida was not received in time for
the representative to attend the Workshop or the Committee Meeting.
An overview of the two components was presented by the Team Leader, followed
by a more detailed presentation of the Hydrology and Water Resources component.
The key topics covered the Activity Schedule, improved Monitoring, the DWA
Modelling Unit, the Topographic and Hydrologic Model development, model
outputs and management plan scenarios, and a summary of pertinent Project issues.
The first meeting of the ODMP Project Steering Committee (PSC) followed the
Inaugural Workshop on 8th October 2003. The two key issues discussed of
relevance to the components were changes to the Consultants’ contracted staff
inputs to the Research and Data Management component (for details see the
corresponding Inception Report) and an alternative approach to the Topographic
Model (see section 4.5).

In both cases, the meeting decided to refer the matter to a meeting with Danida to
be arranged the following week. In the event, both issues were resolved through
further discussions convened by the PMG, without the need to involve Danida.
1.4 Technical Task Force

As the ODMP Project Steering Committee (PSC) does not have the scope to look
into matters of detail concerning individual components, it is proposed that
Technical Task Forces are constituted for each of the two components. The
Hydrology and Water Resources Force was constituted by DWA comprising a
representative from each of NCSA, DWA, International Waters Unit (MMEWR),
University of Botswana, HOORC and the private sector, with the Team Leader as
observer. The Force held its first meeting on 26th November 2003.
The broad role of the Technical Task Forces is to monitor project progress and
provide guidance on implementation. The proposed terms of reference are:
(1) Based on their technical expertise, consider and give positive, critical
comment on the detailed technical aspects of the Hydrology and Water
Resources component.
(2) Suggest changes and additions to the Hydrology and Water Resources
component activities in order to facilitate delivery of the objectives of
this component and the overall ODMP. Such suggestions will be passed
to the Project Management Group (PMG) for approval.
(3) Suggest reallocations of funds within the existing agreed budget, for
approval by the PMG, in order to achieve (2).
(4) Suggest changes to the total budget to fund additional or changed
activities that will ensure better delivery of the objectives of this
component and the overall ODMP. Such suggestions will be passed for
consideration by the PMG and approval by the ODMP Project Steering
Committee.
(5) Make detailed, technical and editorial comments on all reports produced
as a part of the Hydrology and Water Resources component.
(6) The Task Force should also act as a conduit and link to all other
components of the ODMP project. They should therefore also be
involved in providing review and comment on any other component’s
work with Hydrological or Water Resources implications.
The ODMP PSC will have final say in approving major changes to the components’
outputs, and approving reports, referring changes to the total budget, and
reallocations greater than 20%, to the Government of Botswana and Danida.
1.5 Report Structure

This Inception Report opens with an Executive Summary, followed by this
introductory chapter. The following chapter 2 sets out the development and
intermediate objectives of the component, the former essentially that of ODMP.
Chapter 3 describes the overall methodology adopted by the component to achieve
the stated outputs. The component Activities, the progress on each to date and the
planned future progress are described in chapter 4. Each set of activities leads to a
Working Paper. Chapter 5 describes the Inputs, provided and planned, from DWA
and the Consultants, in terms of human resources, equipment and financial
resources. Finally, chapter 6 summarises the key issues for the component, with
recommended actions to address the issues.
The Logical Framework Assessment for the ODMP is presented in Annex A, and a
list of the Working Papers with a brief description of the contents in Annex B.


2 OBJECTIVE AND OUTPUTS
2.1 Objective
The development objective of the Okavango Delta Management Plan is integrated
resource management for the Okavango Delta that will ensure its long term
conservation, and that will provide benefits for the present and future well-being of
the people, through sustainable use of its natural resources.
In line with the development objective, immediate objectives for the two Danida
supported components are:
• A comprehensive, integrated management plan for the conservation
and sustainable use of the Okavango Delta and surrounding areas
• Existing data, information and knowledge available in appropriate
formats and a timely manner to support the development and
initiated implementation of the Okavango Delta Management Plan
• Improved water resources planning, monitoring and evaluation in the
Okavango Delta, based on an enhanced capacity of the Department
of Water Affairs
The following section sets out the outputs leading to realisation of the foregoing
objectives. The objectives and outputs are set out in the ODMP Logical
Framework Assessment which is reproduced in Annex A with references to the
report text, and remarks on adjustments to the outputs and activities.
2.2 Outputs
The following are the planned outputs for the Research and Data Management
component of ODMP:
(1) A data registration, storage and management system in HOORC.
(2) Baseline data on the traditional and current use of the natural resources
of the delta available in appropriate formats and in a timely manner.
(3) A research strategy for HOORC, directing research activities over a 5 to
10 year period towards the sustainable management of the natural
resources of the Okavango Delta.
(4) Results of research and analyses carried out by HOORC and other
organisations published on a regular basis.
Two outputs which are not now part of the Danida supported component are:
participatory planning which is supported by DED and HOORC’s own resources;
and training coordination which will be carried out under the Communications
component.
The following are the planned outputs for the Hydrology and Water Resources
component of ODMP:
(1) A comprehensive quality controlled database comprising existing
climatic, hydrologic, surface water, ground water and sediment data for
the Okavango Delta.

(2) Recommendations on the improvement and expansion of the Okavango

Delta monitoring network.
(3) A digital Topographic Model of the delta.
(4) An Integrated Hydrologic Model for the delta.
(5) The analyses of the impacts of water resources scenarios for the
Okavango Delta Management Plan.
(6) Capability within DWA to maintain and operate the Integrated
Hydrologic Model for the establishment and implementation of the
ODMP.
Outputs omitted from the Danida supported component are water supply and waste
management plans for the Okavango Delta. The Consultants will coordinate with
the projects which are currently conducting or about to conduct planning exercises
in these areas, including the National Water Master Plan and the National
Sanitation and Wastewater Master Plan, and assess the impact of these plans on the
surface and ground waters of the delta as scenarios for ODMP.
2.3 Quality Assurance

The nature of the components demands a high level of intellectual activity from all
team members and participants. Quality assurance will be applied to Project
outputs both tangible, eg reports, and intangible, eg human resource development.
A Quality Assurance Plan (QAP) has been drafted to describe the procedures to be
applied by all team members in order to ensure the quality of the services to be
rendered, and to define the responsibility and authority of all key personnel within
the organisation. The draft has been distributed for comments prior to finalisation.
While the responsibility for the implementation of the QAP rests with the Team
Leader, it is also the responsibility of all team members and participants, who will
be familiar with the Plan and comply with the procedures. Adherence to the quality
procedures will be reviewed periodically by the Consultants’ Quality Assurance
Team, and findings and recommendations will be reported. This four person Team
has no involvement with the Project activities or inputs of the components.
While quality assurance will be applied to outputs, activities will be conducted in
an atmosphere which encourages innovation and the informal exchange of ideas
and information at all levels, to allow individual team members and participants to
contribute to their full ability.

3 METHODOLOGY
3.1 Okavango River Basin and Delta

The Okavango River and Delta comprise a phenomenon virtually unique in the
world. While there are other large rivers which have no ultimate outfall to the sea
or ocean, all discharge to open water such as an inland lake, eg the rivers
discharging to the Aral Sea. Although the delta may from some aspects appear as a
large lake; the surface water flow paths through the delta are clear and distinct, and
are described in geographical terms as rivers.
Upstream Catchment
A map of the Okavango River Basin is shown in figure 3.1. The Okavango River
has its principal origin in the Cubango River which rises in the central highlands of
Angola. The annual rainfall is around 1,000mm, falling mainly in January to
March. The river flows some 600km through narrow steep sided valleys before
reaching the Kalahari sand zone just upstream of the border with Namibia. At this
point the river becomes the Okavango, and flows eastwards some 400km through a
wide valley.
Figure 3.1: Okavango River Basin

The one major tributary to the mainstream, the Cuito River, also rises in the
Angolan highlands, and joins the Okavango near Katere along the border with
Namibia. The lower reaches of the Cuito River have wide flood plains, and the
flood wave is attenuated relative to that in the Cubango River. In Namibia, several
tributaries enter the Okavango River, principal among which is the Omatako
Omarumba. These are highly ephemeral, and contribute little flow to the main
river.
Near Mukwe, the Okavango River turns south east crossing the Caprivi Strip for
around 55km, entering Botswana near Mohembo. Upstream the channel is
confined within a narrow valley, until it flows over the Popa Falls with a drop
around four metres 25km upstream of Mohembo. Below the falls, the river enters a
wide flood plain with grasses and reeds.
Hydrogeology
The Okavango River and Delta lie within the Kalahari Basin, a great depression in
the interior of southern Africa mainly filled with the wind-blown Kalahari Sands
creating a sandstone formation. The delta is an alluvial fan overlying the Kalahari
Sands, and forming an unconfined aquifer hundreds of metres deep. The
downstream limit of the delta is demarcated by the Thamalakane Fault.
During the flood period from May to August and the rainfall period from December
to February, the aquifer is charged with infiltrating water from the swamps and
flood plains. The upstream part is more or less permanently saturated.
Downstream there is an unsaturated zone with the water table increasing in depth
largely owing to abstraction and diminished seasonal flooding. The middle reaches
are a transition zone wetting and drying according to the season and the magnitude
of the flood and rainfall.
Panhandle
A map of the delta with key features is shown in figure 3.2. Popa Falls on the river
in Namibia marks the upstream boundary of the Panhandle. The river is laterally
confined by geological faults and sand ridges to a flood plain up to 15km wide.
The plain has reeds and grasses, much of which is permanently submerged, and
islands with mature trees. The river channel meanders across the flood plain,
varying in width from around 50 to 100m wide, and 5 to 6m deep.
Corresponding to the upstream rainfall, the flood wave has a duration from January
to June, with its peak around the end of March. There are several minor channels
breaking off from the main channel through the reeds, running in parallel across the
flood plain and rejoining the main channel downstream. The bed material is fine to
medium sand, and the water is clear with a very low concentration of suspended
sediments, even in flood.
At the downstream limit of the Panhandle, which is not clearly defined, between the
towns of Sepupa on the right bank and Seronga on the left, the Okavango River
starts to break up into its primary distributaries, marking the start of the delta.
Okavango Delta
The upstream delta is characterised by the main Okavango River flowing through
extensive papyrus swamps, bifurcating into distributary channels which convey the

Okavango
ETSHA
Nqoga
Khwai
Thaoge Jao
Mboroga
GUMARE Gomoti
Xudum Santan
tadibe
Boro
Thamalakane
MAUN
Xudum
Boteti
Nhabe
Figure 3.2: Okavango Delta
flow on to extensive perennial flood plains. The transfer of flow between the river
and flood plains is highly dynamic depending on the period of the flood from
upstream, and the rainfall over the delta.
The primary distributaries are from west to east the Thaoge, which is dying owing
to declining inflows, the Jao leading into the Boro which is in all but exceptional
floods the sole path for surface water outflow from the delta, and the Maunachira
leading into the Khwai, which appears to be gaining in importance, though in
normal flood years has no outflow, ie the waters either evaporate or infiltrate.
Of the three main distributaries, the Thaoge River in the west terminates in a series
of lagoons and extensive flood plains near its upstream end. The Boro River
upstream flows through lagoons and flood plains; downstream it is a single
confined channel, discharging to the Thamalakane. The Khwai River in the east
has wide permanent flood plains along its entire length, and secondary
distributaries, though with no outflow.

The travel time of the flood wave through the delta is from four to five months,
with the upstream peak occurring around the end of March, and the peak
downstream around mid August.
Outflow
The course of the Thamalakane River follows the Thamalakane Fault line which
runs perpendicular to the delta and demarcates its downstream limit. The river
flows south west, and functions as a collector drain for the distributaries from
upstream. In recent years, the sole contributor has been the Boro River. At the
flood peak the Thamalakane River has dried out and succumbed to evaporation and
infiltration in the town of Maun.
In exceptional flood years, flow in the lower Boro bifurcates into the Xudum and
other minor distributaries discharging to the Thamalakane. Flow in the eastern
Maunachira River bifurcates into the Mboroga River and may also reach the
Thamalakane. Subsequently, flow from the Thamalakane bifurcates downstream of
Maun into the Boteti River, and from thence downstream to the Makgadikgadi
Pans, and into the Nhabe River and downstream to Lake Ngami. This flow has not
been observed since 1987.
3.2 Analysis of Existing Conditions

The waters of the Okavango will be analysed for the Panhandle, the Delta and the
Outflow. The principal means of analysis will be an Integrated Hydrologic Model,
with its upstream boundary either at Divundu in Namibia or at Mohembo in
Botswana, approximating to the upstream limit of the Panhandle.
The waters fall into three categories:
• Atmospheric water
• Surface water
• Ground water
There is close interaction among these categories, as illustrated in figure 3.3. The
surface water flow into the delta at Divundu/Mohembo enters a virtually terminal
system. This water disperses through the channels and on to the flood plains of the
delta, and takes two routes: to the atmosphere by the process of evaporation, and to
the ground water by the process of infiltration.
The hydrologic model must have a realistic representation of the physical
phenomena governing the surface and ground water flow, and the interactive
processes. This implies a physical base (in the fundamental laws of physics) and an
explicit representation of the features, to the maximum extent practical.
The Integrated Hydrologic Model will be set up to represent existing conditions in
the delta. Significant topographic and morphologic changes have occurred in the
past, with the result that earlier data do not describe present conditions. The
hydrologic and topographic data input to the model will be from recent years. The
model will take as its primary boundary conditions the surface water inflow at
Divundu or Mohembo, and the rainfall over the delta.
The model will be calibrated, comparing the observations at gauging stations within
the model domain with the output. The model parameters will be adjusted such that

Figure 3.3: Flow Processes in Delta

the model is able to represent the surface and ground water flows for present
conditions. In addition to providing a comprehensive description of the present
behaviour of the delta, this will also be used as a baseline against which to evaluate
future developments.
The basic model output will be the variation in the surface and ground water levels
and flows in time and in space. Additional output parameters will be
evapotranspiration, soil moisture, flood extent and sediment transport. The results
will provide a realistic estimate of the water balance of the delta.
While the software has the capability to model chemical and biological parameters,
this is not within the present scope of the component.
Model Limitations
The Integrated Hydrologic Model for application to ODMP represents the state-of-
the-art in modelling technology. It does have limitations in respect of its ability to
represent certain phenomena influencing the development of the delta:
• The level of detail and accuracy will be limited, not by the
technology, but by the data and time available for its development.
If improved data are available, these may be incorporated in the
model, and overall improvements in the outputs achieved.
• The model will not simulate the formation of new channels, and the
realignment of existing channels. This requires a two dimensional
model (in plan), and is only appropriate for application to particular
river reaches.

• The model does not include biological functions. It will not be

capable of predicting the closure of existing channels by encroaching
vegetation, or the formation of new channels initiated by
hippopotami. Neither can the model represent the accumulation of
peat through decaying vegetation, nor the start of peat fires and their
subsequent impact on the land form.
• While the software has the capability to simulate the transport of salt
through the surface and ground waters, this is beyond the scope of
the present phase. The emergence and subsequent disappearance of
salt islands cannot be simulated.
These and other phenomena have been and continue to be the subject of research
studies. Given detailed data collection from specific sites, more detailed local
models can be established. While these models may not be capable of simulating
the phenomena in their entirety, the model can provide essential boundary
conditions for further detailed investigations.
3.3 ODMP Impact Analysis

Given the Integrated Hydrologic Model set up and calibrated to represent existing
conditions in the delta, the model may now be applied to simulate scenarios for the
Okavango Delta Management Plan. Among the scenarios will be:
• Upstream water resources developments: dams, irrigation, water
supply in Angola and Namibia
• Surface and ground water abstraction from the delta area
• Clearing choked channels by cutting reeds, and cutting and dredging
new channels
• Regional climate changes
The scenarios do not necessarily represent recommended developments in the basin
and delta. The scenarios are simulated in the first instance to determine their
potential beneficial and adverse impacts.
For the upstream developments, the inflow hydrograph at Divundu or Mohembo
will be amended to represent the impact. For example a hydropower development
will have the effect of lowering the peak flow and increasing low flows, with
changes to the corresponding sediment transport in terms of timing and particle
sizes.
Surface and ground water abstractions from the delta will be represented as time
series of withdrawals from specific locations. Choked channels will be represented
by a reduction in the channel cross section, and greatly increased flow resistance.
New channels can be inserted along particular alignments.
The impact of regional climate changes can be represented by changing the rainfall
and other climatic parameters over the delta, and changes to the upstream inflow
hydrographs.
The development scenarios can be organised in various combinations, though it is
recommended to limit the number, simply to be able to manage and evaluate the
huge volume of data which is output by the model.

Thus intercomparisons can be made among the various model output parameters to
assess the impact of management plan scenarios. The flood distribution and extent,
and ground water distribution will be the main parameters to compare. Other key
indicators such as soil moisture may be suggested by other aspects of the
management plan. These may be related to the biodiversity and vegetation type,
which may be more meaningful for interpretation, though the relationships will be
the subject of research and development.
3.4 Capacity Building in DWA

The approach to training and technology transfer will be carried out on three fronts:
(1) Formal courses given in the Modelling Unit by the international experts
in their respective specialities, assisted by the national experts. This will
provide the DWA staff with the basic theory and practical skills to enable
their full participation in the model development and application.
(2) On-the-job training to develop the basic skills in the context of learning
through doing. The DWA staff will be closely involved throughout in all
activities, including data collection and processing, model set up and
calibration, model application to development scenarios and evaluation
of results.
(3) Overseas training for DWA staff who have shown a particular aptitude
for the tasks, and honed their skills to a high degree through close
involvement with the project activities.
Staff Selection
Four staff for the Modelling Unit have been assigned by DWA comprising a senior
hydrologist-engineer and a hydrogeologist, and two recent graduates who have
shown promise and enthusiasm to acquire the new modelling skills. The two
categories will complement each other: the senior staff providing knowledge and
experience of the hydrology and hydraulics of Botswana and the delta; and the
junior staff bringing an ability to learn quickly and adapt readily to the new
technology and tasks.
The senior staff have been freed from other responsibilities within DWA, to devote
substantial and sufficient time to the work of the Modelling Unit such that they are
fully involved in the work, and in the longer term can carry out the operations
independently. The individual staff should be assigned specific responsibilities,
along the lines proposed in the working paper on Capacity Building in DWA.
Needs Assessment
Following the assignment of the staff for the Modelling Unit, a training needs
assessment will be carried out. This will be conducted by the management of the
Hydrology Division and the Team Leader, who will jointly interview the proposed
staff and assess their present experience and that required for the Modelling Unit.
The formal training programme will be tailored accordingly, within the scope of the
available resources, to bring the staff to the level required for the exacting tasks.

Progress Monitoring
The progress of the staff of the Modelling Unit in assimilating the data management
and modelling technology will be assessed periodically by the managers of the
Hydrology Division and the Team Leader. Any need for a change in emphasis or
direction, or additional resources will be identified, and corresponding
recommendations made.
External Support
The DWA Modelling Unit will be established in the context of the present
component, and in addition to the guidance and supervision from the international
consultants, will have the support of national consultants. A close association with
the university and HOORC will also be developed to provide support on the
academic front.
The national consultants will be actively involved in setting up the Integrated
Hydrologic Model, and at the end of the Project they will be well placed to offer
prompt support in case any particular problem arises which the DWA staff are
unable to handle, or to supplement the capacity should there be temporary or even
longer term staff shortages.
HOORC research staff already have considerable expertise in hydrologic
modelling, and should be involved closely in the activities of the modelling unit.
They may also provide support to the longer term activities of the modelling unit.
The hydrologic software which will be employed for the delta model has general
and widespread applicability, and is under continual development at DHI. For the
duration of the component, DHI will provide “hotline” support and upgrades.
Thereafter, support is available at an additional cost.
The sustainability of the Modelling Unit will be enhanced if it is seen as
functioning in the wider context of firstly the Botswana and secondly the
international water and engineering fields. As the need arises, support should be
taken from the national consultants, the university and HOORC, and DHI. Staff of
the Modelling Unit should be encouraged to present their work firstly in the arena
of the ODMP, then to national engineering organisations, and finally to regional
and international organisations, in cooperation with university researchers and
national consultants.

4 ACTIVITIES
4.1 Introduction
The activities leading to the achievement of the component outputs are described in
detail in the following sections, with comments on the progress to date. The
Activity Schedule is presented in figure 4.1. The activities are also set out with
respect to the ODMP Logical Framework Assessment, reproduced in Annex A with
references to the report text and remarks on adjustments to the indicated activities.
The Activity Schedule covers the period up to 1st May 2005, when the Team
Leader’s long term input is fulfilled. In this period, the activities on the component
should be substantially completed. Thereafter, the staff of the DWA Modelling
Unit will be applying the Hydrologic Model to the further analysis of scenarios for
the management plan largely independently, supported by short term inputs from
the national and international modelling specialists.
The Consultants have made four field trips to the delta, accompanied by DWA
staff. The first was a reconnaissance visit including Mohembo in May, the second a
boat trip through the upper delta, travelling through the three main channels
downstream till blockage prevented further access. The Team Leader made a visit
to Popa Falls and Mukwe/Divundu Gauging Stations in Namibia to inspect the site
of the proposed hydropower plant, and the possible upstream boundary for the
Hydrologic Model.
The third field trip comprised a visit to Moremi Wildlife Reserve, travelling up the
Maunachira till the Peter Smith Channel blockage (seen from upstream in the last
trip), downstream on the Khwai and across to Mboma Island. The trip concluded
with a three hour low altitude overflight of virtually the entire delta to gain an
overall impression of the complex hydraulic system and vegetation. A short fourth
trip to Xaxaba included Moumo DCP, but was curtailed owing to vehicle
breakdown and fuel supply problems.
DWA regional staff from the Gumare and Maun offices provided invaluable
assistance in the form of extensive knowledge of the delta and logistic support.
4.2 Data Collection and Processing

Draft Working Papers have been distributed presenting the collection and
compilation of the physical land based data to set up the Integrated Hydrologic
Model of the Okavango Delta. An evaluation is made of the available data in terms
of quantity and quality, and the procedures to collect and manage the data. Initial
recommendations are made to improve the management procedures, and to expand
the collection networks. These recommendations are followed up in a working
paper on Recommendations for Improved Monitoring of the delta.
There is a wide range of categories of physical data describing the phenomena
which control the behaviour of the delta. These comprise time series data: climatic,
hydrometric, hydrogeologic, sediment transport, water quality, surface and ground
water abstraction; and relatively stationary data: topography, channel cross
sections, soil and river channel material types. Corresponding to the variety of data
categories, the sources of data are also numerous. Primary among these are: the
DWA, DGS, DMS and research reports.
Figure 4.1: Hydrology and Water Resources Schedule

RESPONSIBILITY 2003 2004 2005
ACTIVITY Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr
PRIMARY SECONDARY May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov
1 Data Collection and Processing

1.1 Collect Available Data FS IM
1.2 Process Available Data FS IM

4
1.3 Evaluate Available Data FS IM
2 Monitoring Programme
2.1 Climatic Data OS FS 5 king Paper
milestone with no of Work
2.2 Surface Water Data OS FS
2.3 Ground Water OS FS, IM

5
2.4 Pollution SD FS
2.5 Implement Programme DWA
3 DWA Modelling Unit

1
3.1 Specify Computer Equipment JAM
3.2 Procure Computer Equipment DWA
3.3 Appoint Staff to Modelling Unit DWA
2 9
3.4 Assess Training Needs JAM DWA
3
3.5 Presentation on Modelling Concept JAM TVJ, PBH,
HGE
3.6 Staff Training in DWA
3.6.1 Hydrology Modelling TVJ FS
3.6.2 Surface Water Modelling JAM FS
3.6.3 Ground Water Modelling PBH IM
14
3.7 Overseas Training JAM
4 Remote Sensing
4.1 Collect Available Information MKS
4.2 Assess Available Information MKS

6
4.3 Set Out Project Methodology MKS
4.4 Select and Order Additional Data MKS
4.5 Preliminary Classification MKS
4.6 Preliminary Delta Topography MKS
4.7 Final Classification MKS
4.8 Working Topographic Model MKS
4.9 Interaction with Hydrologic Model MKS

8
4.10 Final Topographic Model MKS

Figure 4.1: Hydrology and Water Resources Schedule (cont)
5 Sediment Transport and Geology
5.1 Research Sources MJM
5.2 Collect and Evaluate Data MJM

7
5.3 Delta Geology and Morphology MJM
6 Integrated Hydrological Model

6.1 SVAT TVJ FS
6.2 Rainfall-Runoff Model TVJ JAM, FS
6.3 Surface Water Model JAM FS
6.4 Sediment Transport Model HGE MJM
6.5 Ground Water Model PBH TVJ, IM

10
6.6 Integrated Model TVJ IM
7 Model Applications
11
7.1 Prepare Scenarios JAM FS, IM
7.2 Preliminary Scenario Applications

7.2.1 Water Supply JAM PBH, FS, IM
7.2.2 Dredging JAM FS
7.2.3 Reed Cutting JAM FS
7.2.4 U/S Water Resources JAM FS
7.2.5 Climate Change TVJ FS
12
7.3 Presentation of Model and Results JAM TVJ, PBH, HE,
FS, IM
13
7.4 Refine Model and Scenarios JAM TVJ, PBH, HE,
FS, IM
8 Reporting
8.1 Inception JAM BS
8.2 Progress JAM BS
8.3 Final Report JAM BS
May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr
2003 2004 2005

These data of different types and from different sources will comprise the input to
the integrated mathematical model of the delta. As such, they must be accurate and
consistent among themselves: the rainfall with the surface water level, the surface
water level with the ground water level, the surface water level with the cross
section, the discharge with the sediment transport, etc.
Prior to input to the mathematical model, these data are evaluated using a
systematic series of checks and cross checks. The model itself integrates the data,
and invalid results will highlight inconsistencies among the input data sets. Not all
errors will be indicated by the model and, to ensure redundancy in the data analysis,
a thorough evaluation is conducted prior to use in the model.
The mathematical model will be set up initially to represent current conditions in
the delta, with respect to channel alignment and flood plain topography. As the
delta experiences long term morphological changes, the time series database
focuses on the last five hydrologic years. Data sets covering earlier periods of
specific interest are also identified, compiled and evaluated.
Hydrologic Data
The existing DWA hydrologic network in the delta is extensive, though the quality
of the data collected is low. The distribution of the water level gauging stations is
shown in figure 4.3. The primary problem is access: tracks run through deep sand
in the dry period, and soft mud in the rainy season; channels become blocked by
vegetation; wild animals pose a danger to gauging staff and damage gauging
installations. Among the recommendations arising from the report are:
• The water level gauge board elevations must be related to each other,
and preferably to the national datum. This is presently being
undertaken by the Department of Surveys and Mapping (DSM) using
high accuracy GPS.
• Data measurement and storage should be followed by routine
processing including quality controls – interpolation in the database
is meaningless and unnecessary
• A special study should be conducted to quantify the flow bypassing
the key gauging station at Mohembo; if river cross section data are
available upstream, the upstream boundary should be taken at
Divundu where the total Okavango flow can be gauged
• A review of DWA regional hydrology staffing should be conducted
for adequacy of staff numbers, training needs and supervision by
senior officers
• The DWA automatic data collection platforms (DCPs) should be
rehabilitated, their operation and maintenance brought into the
routine procedures, and formal arrangements made for reception of
the data in DWA
DWA has shown a strong commitment to ODMP and monitoring the Okavango
Delta in giving priority to a high accuracy GPS survey of the bench marks attached
to the gauge boards and DCPs. The work was carried out by DSM in November
and December 2003, with logistic support provided by DWA. This was a major

Figure 4.3: Distribution of Water Level Gauges in Delta
undertaking involving more than 30 staff in seven teams, with an intensive work
programme . It demonstrates the solid cooperation between DWA and DSM.
The survey will establish the water levels in absolute terms, relative to mean sea
level, and enable relationships to be made among the stations’ water level records,
which could previously only show the range, including with the gauging stations on
the river upstream in Namibia.
Hydrogeologic Data
Ground water monitoring in and around the delta is limited, conducted only by
major development projects around Maun. The distribution of boreholes in the
delta is shown in figure 4.4. There are major gaps in this programme. The
boreholes are not accurately located in plan, and not related to a common level
datum. The principal holders of data, DWA and the Department of Geological
Surveys (DGS), use different ground water databases with different data stored in
different formats.
The following are the primary recommendations to bring the data collection to the
standard required by the management plan:

Figure 4.4: Distribution of Boreholes in and around Delta

• Ground water monitoring needs to be extended throughout the delta

to capture the natural movements, and the impact of abstraction – the
distribution should cover the different aquifer systems
• The monitoring boreholes should be accurately located in plan, and
levelled to the national datum
• Available data should be entered into a common database for further
processing and analysis, enabling the setup of a conceptual ground
water model of the delta
• Responsibility for overall ground water monitoring in the delta
should be vested in a single organisation, with established
procedures for data collection, processing and analysis
Sediment Transport
It appears that there is no sediment transport data available with organisations in
Botswana on the Okavango Delta. International sources will be researched,
primary among which will be the extensive research work conducted by the
Okavango Research Group of Witwatersrand University. Data are being collected
by NamPower Namibia in connection with feasibility studies of the proposed
hydropower plant at Popa Falls, also involving the university group.
Among the data anticipated to be available are:
(1) cross sections of the rivers and flood plains or swamp areas
(2) data on suspended sediment rates, concentrations and particle size
(3) particle sizes of bed and flood plain material
The data will in general have been collected on campaigns for specific research
purposes using sophisticated techniques under specialist guidance. Although they
will not comprise a long term systematic data set, considerable use can nonetheless
be made of these data.
4.3 Monitoring Programme

Basic information on the hydrology of the Okavango Delta is essential for the
management plan in order to understand the processes at work in shaping the delta.
The previous section 4.2 summarises the working papers which describe the data
availability, and evaluate their reliability and relevance to the management
planning. These papers have provided the bases for a third working paper
presenting recommendations for improved and expanded monitoring in the delta.
The objective of the monitoring programme is the provision of a solid database
representing the behaviour of the key processes at work in the delta: climatic, water
flows and sediment transport. The principle is to provide long term systematic
data, that capture the range of flood and drought events, and sequences of these
events, in time and in space. The methods of data collection should be such that
they can be implemented by DWA technical field staff.
Considerable effort has been expended over many years on intensive monitoring of
the Okavango Delta, with respect to climatic and surface water. Many lessons have
been learnt, primary among which are the difficulties in accessing many sites, and

disturbance of the stations by wild animals and theft by humans. While no

installation can be totally secure, and with a high level of maintenance operating
costs will be high, improvements can be made to the installations and procedures.
Climatic Data
There are a number of climatic stations in and around the delta, operated by five
different organisations: DMS, DWA, ARB, HOORC and tourist lodges. These
should be brought under common management, and the data shared.
Recommendations to expand the network have been made independently by the
Consultants and HOORC. These may be integrated into a common proposal. In
order to complement the analysis of spatial distribution of the rainfall, remote
sensing sources are being investigated.
Within the delta, DWA has eight data collection platforms (DCPs) automatically
sensing rainfall and water level, and transmitting the data by satellite to the
Department of Meteorological Services (DMS) in Gaborone. Two of the stations
also measure climatic parameters. The DCPs have not been maintained and,
compounded by the year 2000 data storage problem, have fallen into disrepair.
None of the stations is presently operational.
The DCPs represent a major investment in monitoring the delta, and should be
rehabilitated as a top priority. DWA has the capability to operate and maintain the
stations in the long term, though this is presently vested in one staff member only,
and needs to be more widely disseminated. The data received at DMS should be
transmitted directly to DWA. The data reception should be regularly monitored
such that problems are detected early, and procedures to rectify are promptly
initiated.
Hydrometric Data
There is a dense network of some 70 water level gauges in the delta. Most are
simple gauge boards fixed to an angle iron driven into the river bed, normally read
monthly. A small number has automatic float type gauges with continuous chart
recorders running for one month or more. The stations are frequently disturbed by
wild animals. Discharge is measured monthly with a current meter from a boat at
around 30 of the stations.
The number and distribution of the stations are adequate for the management plan.
The following recommendations are made:
• Install a new system of around ten automatic water level recorders,
recording hourly with a data storage capacity up to one year and
battery power for five years. Data are retrieved by simply removing
and replacing the data logger.
• The discharge equipment presently employed is well suited to the
task. The availability of instruments and procedures for calibration
and maintenance should be checked, and spare parts carried to the
field by the gauging staff as a routine.

• The gauging staff from the Gumare and Maun offices should be
provided with a computer with appropriate software, and instructed
to calculate the discharge and plot the discharge and water levels
immediately they return to the office. The staff will have a greater
involvement and sense of responsibility for the process, errors and
other problems can be spotted early, and remedial action taken.
• Sediment transport should be monitored at the key inflow station at
Mohembo. This should be done by taking water samples analysed
for suspended sediment concentration in conjunction with the
discharge measurements. The concentration is known to be low, but
is nonetheless important.
• The major part of sediment transport is bed load. Samples of the bed
material should be analysed for their particle size distribution.
Measurement of bed load transport is difficult: appropriate methods
for systematic measurement at Mohembo should be investigated.
Water Quality
No systematic water quality monitoring of the surface waters of the delta has been
carried out to date. Some data, limited in time and space, have been obtained for
specific projects and research studies. A proposed study by DWA (Okavango and
Chobe Pollution Study, for which an inception report has been prepared but no
copies are available) plans a comprehensive survey in the vicinity of lodges and
camps. This study does not consider the natural background water quality, and is
unlikely to yield meaningful results. It should be redesigned.
The quality of the water entering the delta is a determining factor for the quality of
both the surface and ground waters of the delta. A long term systematic
programme should be initiated for the basic chemical parameters, in conjunction
with the discharge measuring programme at Mohembo. Biological monitoring is
not recommended at present. Pollution pressures are virtually absent and there is a
need to focus on essential measurements which yield meaningful results.
The water quality laboratory in DWA needs to be upgraded to carry out the full
range of analyses. The facilities at HOORC may be employed in the meantime.
Ground Water
It is essential to have knowledge of the ground water levels throughout the delta to
analyse the infiltration and movement. There are at present over 1,000 boreholes
in and around the delta. The large majority is in the southern area around Maun
and along the western margin. Present monitoring is conducted through the impact
of abstraction. There are virtually no boreholes within the delta. It order to
optimise the information gathered and the cost of the programme, an imaginative
and varied approach is proposed, corresponding to the varied hydrogeology of the
delta.
Along the Thamalakane valley at the downstream boundary of the delta, the present
monitoring is adequate, though it has suffered wilful damage and reinstatement
with greater security is required. Consideration should also be given to a more
widespread distribution of the monitoring sites, and continuity of existing long data
series.

Monitoring in the downstream delta has to distinguish three ground water aquifers:
a shallow upper unconfined aquifer, a lower semi-confined aquifer and a deeper
brackish underlying aquifer. This can be achieved with a nested system of three
pipes each sampling a different level.
Along the western margin, a regular monitoring programme is proposed, with a
small number of new boreholes with automatic recorders to cover gaps. There are
very few boreholes on the northern margin. To completely encircle the delta,
around eight new boreholes should be drilled for monitoring.
Within the delta, along the boundary between the permanent and seasonal flooding,
it is proposed that small individual catchments corresponding to different terrain
types are identified, and monitored for the total water balance. The catchments
would have a raingauge, weirs upstream and downstream to measure surface water
flow, and piezometers around the perimeter. HOORC has set up one such
catchment adjacent to Chief’s Island.
In the upper reaches of the wide valleys in the south west of the delta (eg the
Xudum) the ground water level has been dropping in recent years owing to limited
seasonal flooding. It is proposed that one longitudinal profile is monitored with
piezometers or small boreholes drilled using a lightweight rig. In the lower reaches
(eg the Kunyere), ground water levels have dropped alarmingly. It is proposed that
two sections across the valley each with three boreholes are monitored.
Implementation
The recommendations made in the working paper constitute an outline of the
required monitoring programme. The activities leading to full implementation are
as follows:
(1) Acceptance in principle of the recommendations by DWA and NCSA.
(2) Distribution of the recommendations to DWA divisions for comments,
and assistance in implementation.
(3) Mobilisation of national and international consultants to provide further
details and technical specifications, including outline designs for site
installations sufficient for the preparation of tender documents.
(4) The climatic and hydrometric programmes are relatively well defined in
the Working Paper. Ground water monitoring requires further
investigations of existing data and field reconnaissance.
(5) Assessment of the required DWA staff resources and training, and data
management.
(6) Preparation of a programme for long term operation and maintenance of
the gauging stations, and an estimate of the annual cost of the
programme.
Since further investigations are required particularly for the ground water
programme, as well as detailed design of the installations, the cost of
implementation can only be estimated at this stage. The estimate for climatic and
hydrometric equipment is USD100,000, and for ground water including drilling a
similar amount of USD100,000. Detailed specifications and designs are beyond the
scope of the Consultants’ activities, and these costs will be additional.


A Modelling Unit has been established in DWA to set up an Integrated Hydrologic
Model of the Okavango Delta, and apply the model to a range of scenarios for the
management plan. A large office in DWA has been assigned to the unit. The unit
requires computer hardware and software, office equipment and furniture (see
section 5, Inputs).
Four staff have been assigned to the unit:
Ontlogetse Dikgomo has a BSc in Civil Engineering from the South Bank
University, London (1998), and has been employed in DWA since 1991. His work
experience includes hydrologic and topographic techniques to define the course of
the Linyanti River between Botswana and Namibia, and various water resources
development studies.
Benjamin Mafa has a BSC in Geology from the University of Botswana and an
MSc in Hydrochemistry from Germany. He has been employed in the Department
of Geological Surveys for the past five years, and has taken a course in advanced
mathematical modelling.
Ditiro Benson Moalafhi graduated with a BSc specialising in Hydrology and
Climatology from the University of Botswana in 2000. He is currently completing
an MPh in catchment modelling, with parallel work experience in flow studies on
the Limpopo and other rivers in Botswana.
Kobamelo Dikgola graduated with a BSc in Environmental Science, specialising in
Hydrology and Mathematics, in 2003.
In addition, GIS and computer systems assistance will be available on a part time
basis from the IT Division of DWA.
The staff should be assigned specific responsibilities in the unit, along the lines
proposed in the working paper on Capacity Building in DWA. In order to improve
sustainability in the long term, and cover for individual staff who are absent for a
short or longer period, each staff member should be acquainted with the tasks and
responsibilities of the other members, and be capable of carrying out their tasks.
The new staff structure for DWA has recently been approved by the ministry. The
Modelling Unit is institutionalised under the National Water Master Plan, now
entering its ninth phase. This should ensure a long term commitment to the
Modelling Unit, increasing the range of application of the acquired skills, and
offering continuing opportunities for staff development and long term
sustainability.
A Working Paper on Capacity Building in DWA has been distributed. This sets out
the staffing requirements (a Manager, two engineer hydrologists, an engineer
hydrogeologist, a data manager and a systems engineer), training needs, the
computer hardware (five personal computers and peripherals) and the computer
software (three MIKE SHE – MIKE 11 – ArcView systems).
Training
Discussions will be held to assess the training needs of the DWA staff assigned to
the Modelling Unit. These will comprise both formal and on-the-job training. The
formal training is planned to entail courses of three days duration in four topics:

Hydrology Modelling, Surface Water Modelling, Ground Water Modelling and

Sediment Transport Modelling. The formal courses will be given by each of the
international modelling specialists during their first inputs, and will comprise both
theory and practical sessions.
The formal courses will be backed up by on-the-job training. This is the key to
successful technology transfer, whereby the participants learn by doing, functioning
as a team with the focus on practical application. The DWA staff will work
alongside the national and international and specialists, and actively participate in
all the tasks leading to the establishment and application of the Hydrologic Model.
In this context, it is essential that the staff assigned to the unit are free from other
responsibilities, and can devote their full energies to the work of the unit.
The Topographic Model (see section 4.5) will be the basis of the Integrated
Hydrologic Model. Training may be extended to include topographic modelling.
This is discussed in section 4.5 below.
Following the completion of the formal and on-the-job training programme, the
staff capabilities will be assessed with the respect to the need for DWA to continue
hydrologic and water resources analyses for ODMP, beyond the end of the present
planning phase. Recommendations will be made on further staff development,
which will include overseas training. A proposal to train four modelling engineers
at DHI’s headquarters in Denmark is included in the Capacity Building at DWA
report. An alternative would be to support post graduate study at a university or
international institute specialising in hydrologic modelling.
4.5 Topographic Model

The Topographic or Digital Elevation Model (DEM) provides the basic terrain for
the Integrated Hydrologic Model of the delta. Remote sensing data will be used to
create and validate information on the topography. In the Okavango Delta, a
Digital Elevation Model will be created using a number of techniques. The
approach integrates various data sources in order to be able to cross check the
results:
• Combine different methods for different environments, using time
series of satellite imagery and hydrologic information to assess the
water volume
• Use new datasets providing the digital elevation of the delta: high
resolution aerial survey combining radar altimetry and differential
GPS, and new Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) data
• Cross check and identify convergence and divergence between data
sources and different methods, focussing on areas of divergence.
The identification of methods and data sets has been carried out during the
inception phase, with the collection of additional knowledge and ancillary data.
The following data sets have been identified and collected, and the different remote
sensing approaches are described briefly:
(1) Radar altimetry: a high resolution aerial survey performed by the
Department of Geological Surveys using radar altimetry and differential
GPS will be used for the general elevation and where possible also in the
flood plains.

(2) Contour extraction: will be applied to remote sensing data to map

changes in the shorelines at different times. In areas with seasonally
flooded swamps the changing water level and the extent of flooding
indicate the elevation and topography. Using water level time series, the
topographical model will reflect the dynamics of the delta hydraulics.
(3) Vegetation mapping: multispectral remote sensing data will be used to
map the terrestrial and aquatic vegetation dynamics, and thus distinguish
between the water body and dry land. There is a documented
relationship between the type of vegetation and the annual variation in
water level: local expert knowledge will give information on water
depths in the vegetated areas. This will provide knowledge of the
topography and hydrology.
(4) Interferometric data on elevation from the Shuttle Radar Topography
Mission (SRTM) will be used for further validation in comparisons with
the radar altimetry on the fringes of the delta. It is not sufficiently
accurate to extract information on the small scale topography in the delta,
but still valid as an additional means to cross check different sources.
(5) Stratification by water levels: time series of satellite images will be
used to identify areas stable in terms of water distribution, and areas that
change from season to season or from year to year. This information will
be employed to stratify the delta and identify more important areas in
terms of water distribution.
(6) Deep and shallow waters: the relative difference in the reflection of
blue, green and red light from the water body will be used to assess the
depth to 5 metres with an accuracy of ±20 %. This will applied to open
water bodies which are clear and free of vegetation.
(7) Detailed studies: a set of orthophotographs from 2001/02 is currently
being produced by the Department of Surveys and Mapping. This
information will be used for reference purposes. High resolution Ikonos
or QuickBird satellite data with a spatial resolution down to 0.6 metre
will enable more detailed analysis of selected areas.
(8) Cross checks: in many areas, cross checks among the aerial survey data,
contour extraction and the SRTM data set will be performed to ensure a
high quality output. Bench marks established by the Department of
Surveys and Mapping will also be used to check the datasets.
(9) Bench Marks: a series of several hundred bench marks set out by DSM
in 1974 along roads around the delta and traverses into the delta will be
used primarily to verify the accuracy of the model.
The Landsat data to be used has a spatial resolution of 30 metres and 6 spectral
bands in the visual and near infrared parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. In
addition a panchromatic band (black and white image) with 15 metre spatial
resolution is available on Landsat ETM+ from 1999 and onwards. A large number
of Landsat scenes since 1979 has been obtained mainly from HOORC for the
Okavango Delta, enabling both historical and seasonal analyses. One Landsat
image covers 185km by 185km and is a very cost effective data source. A Landsat
scene covering a part of the area is shown in figure 4.5.

Figure 4.5: Landsat Image of part of Delta

The creation of the Topographic Model or digital elevation model (DEM) of the
Okavango Delta is a complex task demanding a high level of technical and
professional skills. The model is being set up in the office of GRAS (the
responsible subconsultant) in Denmark, where there is the necessary IT
environment for the task. The main activities will be completed by February 2004.
Training
The Topographic Model will be the basis of the hydrologic model. While training
in topographic modelling is not part of the Consultants’ contract, it is a recognised
need. The Consultants will provide the staff of the DWA Modelling Unit training
in the development and application of the Topographic Model, in order that they
understand how it has been developed, and how it should be applied.
Further training can be given, in the form of on-the-job training and an extended
formal course, to the extent that the DWA staff are able to apply the techniques to
other areas. The Consultants have proposed options which are currently being
considered by DWA. In evaluating the options for extended training, the following
should be considered:
• The modest goal to inform the DWA staff of the process to develop
the model, and to apply the model to the analysis of scenarios for
ODMP, can be achieved within the scope of the present project.

• A more ambitious goal would be to enable the DWA staff to update

and refine the Topographic Model, and to apply the techniques to set
up topographic models of other areas. Additional resources will be
required, and it will take time to apply for and receive these
resources.
• Unlike the development of the Integrated Hydrologic Model, the
method to establish the Topographic Model is appropriate for the
delta, but it does not represent a general approach that can be applied
to other areas.
• High demands will be placed on the staff of the DWA Modelling
Unit to acquire the skills required to develop and apply the
Integrated Hydrologic Model in the longer term once the Consultants
have completed their tasks. Extended training in Topographic
modelling will stretch these demands further.
Alternative Approach
An alternative approach to the development of the Topographic Model was put
forward by the Project Management Group, utilising an existing model developed
by Dr Thomas Gumbricht. After lengthy discussion, this was finally rejected by
NCSA and DWA on contractual, technical and practical grounds:
• The Consultants’ contracted approach is well integrated with their
overall methodology, specifically for the Integrated Hydrologic
Model. The alternative approach could disrupt this.
• The alternative model is based on an earlier coarse model, but is not
documented
• Important information and methods which will be used by the
Consultants, particularly radar based, have not been utilised in the
alternative model
• Dr Gumbricht was not available for a short term consultancy which
might support the development of the Consultants’ Topographic
Model
4.6 Integrated Hydrologic Model

The availability of surface and ground water in the delta is central to the
management plan for the Okavango Delta. The assessment of the water resources
of the delta will be based on the application of a physically based Integrated
Hydrologic Model for the delta.
A number of hydrologic models of the delta has been developed for various
purposes over the years. The primary limitations of these models are:
• A conceptual cellular approach to the surface water
• A conceptual single layer approach to the ground water
Conceptual implies that the mathematical representation in the model is based on a
concept or abstract idea of the how the system performs. The alternative is
physically based, in which the model representation is based on physical laws

describing the phenomena. In the conceptual approach, phenomena are implicit,

whereas with the physically based approach the phenomena are explicit.
As an example, the conceptual approach describes the combined river and flood
plain in a cell; the physically based approach separates the river and the flood plain,
explicitly. Thus a blockage in the river channel can be represented explicitly in the
physically based model, and the correspondingly increased water levels and flood
plain flow computed, explicitly. In the conceptual approach, assumptions have to
be made regarding the impact of the blockage on the lumped river and flood plain.
Only the physically based approach is adequate to simulate the range of scenarios
required for the management plan.
The Integrated Hydrologic Model for the ODMP will be developed using the MIKE
SHE – MIKE 11 modelling package, which has been developed by DHI Water and
Environment. The systems have a continuous development history stretching over
thirty years, and are used by over 1,000 organisations worldwide on innumerable
water resources and flood management applications, including the recent Florida
Everglades Restoration, which has many similarities to the Okavango Delta
planning activities. The system is integrated with ArcView GIS for the preparation
of topographic input data and the presentation of results. A schematic
representation of the model is shown in figure 4.6.
Figure 4.6: Schematic Representation of MIKE SHE Model

The model will integrate four components:

• Soil-vegetation-atmosphere transfer (SVAT) module to describe the
temporal and spatial distribution of the loss of water to the
atmosphere, from open water, swamp and land based vegetation
• Surface water module (MIKE 11) based on a quasi two dimensional
hydrodynamic representation of the river channels and flood plains
of the delta to describe the water levels and flows through the delta
• Sediment transport module (MIKE 11) to simulate the transport of
sediment as bed load throughout the delta
• The ground water module (MIKE SHE) is a three dimensional
representation of the unsaturated and saturated zones
MIKE 11 is an integral part of MIKE SHE. The exchange of water between
channels and flood plains is modelled as spill over and breaches through channel
banks, infiltration and exfiltration through the river bed and the flood plain ground
level. MIKE SHE also incorporates rainfall interception, evapotranspiration and
overland flow. All processes operate spatially at time steps consistent with their
spatial and temporal scales.
The outputs from the model cover the entire surface and ground water system, and
include water levels, discharges and velocities, inundated areas, evaporation, soil
moisture and sediment transport rates, deposition and erosion. Water balance data
are derived from the results, providing inflows, outflows, storage, extent of
flooding, distributed in time and space.
The domain of the model will cover the Panhandle, the delta, the Thamalakane
River, Lake Ngami and the upstream reach of the Boteti River, an area around
30,000km2.
As discussed in preceding sections (4.2 and 4.3), the existing data are limited in
terms of distribution and quality. It is not the intention to establish a model which
is limited to the extent and quality of the existing data. Rather the model
representing the best technology available will make full advantage of the existing
data, and at the same time have full scope to develop in terms of accuracy and level
of detail as the database improves and expands.
As shown in figure 4.1, the set up of the model is scheduled to commence in
December 2003, and be completed by August 2004. The model will be set up in a
staged process, with each component added incrementally and finally integrated
into a whole and calibrated against the available observed data.
4.7 Model Application

Once the integrated model has been set up and calibrated, it can be applied to
simulate a range of scenarios for the management plan. For each scenario and
combination of scenarios simulated, the model will provide the impact in terms of
water levels, discharges, etc. Appropriate time series of inputs (inflow,
precipitation, etc) will be prepared and applied to the existing state of the delta.
The results will be utilised as a baseline against which future developments may be
assessed for their impacts.
Among the scenarios anticipated are:

• Upstream water resources developments: dams, irrigation, water

supply in Angola and Namibia; and interbasin transfers
• Surface and ground water abstraction from the delta area
• Clearing choked channels by cutting reeds and dredging new
channels
• Regional climate changes
As discussed in the previous section 4.6, only the proposed physically based
approach to simulating the delta hydraulics separates the river and flood plain
flows. This is essential to represent scenarios such as channel blockage, clearing
and cutting.
The scenarios do not necessarily represent recommended developments, and
include measures with known adverse impacts, the objective being a quantitative
assessment of the impacts, both beneficial and adverse. DWA has been carrying
out work clearing channel blockages to ease the flow downstream, with varying
success. DWA’s involvement in the delta in respect of channel blockages, weed
control and monitoring are functions which have evolved over time, since the
Hydrology Division was established in the 1970s. These should be examined in the
course of the management planning process.
Other scenarios may be prepared, though these should be chosen with care and the
total number limited. Each scenario takes time to prepare and run through the
model. More time consuming will be the time taken to analyse the results, and
evaluate the results in the context of other scenarios. There is also the possibility to
prepare combinations of scenarios. The number can increase geometrically, and the
results become unmanageable. The following is suggested as a feasible maximum
for impact analysis during the main implementation phase:
• six primary scenarios, such as the above, to assess the individual
impacts of interventions
• three combined scenarios, representing high development of water
resources, and minimum environmental considerations; minimum
development of water resources, and maximum environmental
consideration; an approach compromising the development with the
environment
• A final refined scenario representing the recommended management
plan for the Okavango Delta
The primary constraint is not the computations with the Integrated Hydrologic
Model, but the evaluation of the results extending throughout the delta.
Based on the results of the basic scenarios, a set of scenarios representing the
management plan will be prepared and through an iterative approach refined to the
proposed plan. The application work is planned to take place from September 2004
to February 2005.
Water Supply and Waste Management

Several projects are underway or planned to start soon regarding water supply and
waste management, nationally and for the delta. Among these are:

• Updated 1992 National Water Master Plan, planned to start in 2004

• Water Conservation and Demand Management Project, currently
running and proposed to be extended in 2004
• Various water supply studies in and around the delta
• ODMP Local Authority Services Provision (component 10) is
preparing a District Waste Management Strategy
• National Sanitation and Wastewater Master Plan, started in January
2002
The component will coordinate with these studies, and obtain their short and long
term proposals for surface and water ground water abstraction from the delta.
These studies can also be expected to reveal the driving forces behind the demands
(domestic, industrial, agricultural), and future trends. Given the amount and timing
of these planned abstractions, the Hydrologic Model will simulate the impact on the
delta as one of the scenarios for the management plan.
4.8 Reporting
The primary reports to be prepared by the project are:
(1) A draft Inception Report, submitted on 7th November 2003.
(2) Final Inception Report for each of the two components, incorporating the
comments of the Project Steering Committee to the draft, submitted by
19th December 2003.
(3) It is proposed to submit an Interim Report by 30th April 2005, marking
the completion of the Team Leader’s long term input to the Project, and
substantial completion of the Project activities.
(4) A draft Completion Report, to be submitted by 31st May 2006.
(5) Final Completion Report, to be submitted by 31st July 2006.
According to the Consultants’ contract, Progress Reports are to be submitted
every six months, the first of which would coincide with the Inception
Report. In a meeting with NCSA, DWA and the PMG on 27th August 2003,
it was decided that this was too infrequent, and that Progress Reports should
be submitted every two months.
The first Progress Report was submitted covering the period from May to
September 2003. Avoiding coincidence with the draft and final Inception
Reports, the next Progress Report will be submitted two months after the
Inception Report, by 29th February 2004 and every two months thereafter.
Milestones in the Activity Schedules are marked by the working papers
presenting the main activities, and recommendations and conclusions arising.
The paper on Capacity Building in DWA was distributed in June 2003. Three
working papers have been distributed as drafts in November and December:
• Hydrologic Data
• Hydrogeologic Data
• Recommendations for Improved Monitoring

The complete planned list of Working Papers for the Hydrology and Water
Resources component is given in Annex B.
A Procedures Manual and Quality Assurance Plan for the Project have been
distributed as drafts for comment in December 2003.
4.9 Related Okavango Delta Projects

There are several related projects on the Okavango Delta recently initiated and of
relevance to the Water Resources component:
• Environmental Protection and Sustainable
Management of the Okavango River Basin – with the goal long
term investment and protecting the ecological integrity of the basin,
the UNDP/GEF project coordinated by OKACOM will complete a
Trans-Boundary Diagnostic Analysis and formulate a Strategic
Action Programme
• TwinBas – a European Union research project with the goal of
knowledge brought to a level where Integrated Water Resources
Management can be implemented for five twinned river basins
around the world, including the Okavango River Basin
• Leseding Project – an initiative from the University of the Free
State, South Africa conducting research focussing on fish ecology
and the livelihood sustainability of Ngamiland people
• TIGER Partnership between the European Space Agency (ESA),
the Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETZ) and DWA –
establishing a monitoring programme for the Okavango Delta based
on remote sensing
• Morphological studies related to the proposed hydropower
development at Popa Falls in Namibia, conducted by DWA
Namibia in cooperation with Witwatersrand University
The component will cooperate with these and other projects, within the basic
constraints of the limited human and financial resources available. As a minimum,
ODMP needs to be aware of the plans and projected outputs of these projects, and
to share data and results. Further cooperation could result in enhancing the outputs
and a closer realisation of the objectives of all projects, and an integration of the
management of the entire river basin.

5 INPUTS
5.1 Project Staffing

5.1.1 Consultants
The Consultants’ Team Leader commenced his long term assignment on the Project
on 1st May 2003, coinciding with the ODMP Project start date. The Team Leader
has an office in DWA in Gaborone. The Team Leader has been assessing the
context of the planned activities, detailing these activities, initiating and guiding the
progress according to the plan, and coordinating the activities with the ODMP
project management, key related stakeholders and other organisations.
The deputy team leader followed with a two week input in May, and a three week
input in July and August to prepare the implementation plans for the Research and
Data Management component in consultation with the HOORC. The Information
Technology Specialist continued the work with HOORC in October to prepare the
implementation of the Consultants’ support to HOORC in Data Management for
the ODMP, including an Activity Schedule and the Consultants’ staffing inputs.
The Remote Sensing Expert made his first input of two weeks in the beginning of
August, collecting and evaluating the available data for the Topographic Model.
Substantial data sets were obtained from HOORC and DGS. Following a delayed
start while the PMG considered an alternative approach, the work to set up the
model is now underway in Denmark. The expert will make a return visit early next
year to deliver the working model, and provide training for DWA staff in its setup
and use.
The national consultants on the Hydrology and Water Resources component, the
Hydrologist, Hydrogeologist and Morphologist were mobilised in June and July,
and have collected and evaluated the available data in their respective fields. The
two international monitoring specialists made their first input in September and
October, and have made recommendations on improved monitoring of the delta for
the management plan. Depending on the implementation by DWA and ODMP of
the recommendations, the monitoring specialists are available for a short period to
provide further input and advice. If a major programme is taken up as
recommended, this could be extended if required.
An outline of the staffing schedule for the first two years of the Hydrology and
Water Resources component, including the DWA Modelling Unit, is presented in
figure 5.1. Staffing for the Research and Data Management component is also
included.
5.1.2 Proposed Staff Changes
Modelling Specialists
The Consultants have proposed changes to the staffing of the Water Resources
modelling specialists. The complex dynamic interactions between the atmospheric,
surface and ground waters in the delta area require a high level of specialist
expertise in integrated hydrologic modelling. The substitution of Steen Asger
Nielsen with Torsten Jacobsen with a significant input reflects this need.
Figure 5.1: Project Staff Schedule

2003 2004 2005
TOTAL
DWA Modelling Unit

Unit Manager 7.0
Senior Engineer I 17.0
Senior Engineer II 17.0
Junior Engineer I 14.0
Junior Engineer II 14.0
System Analyst 7.0
International Consultants
Team Leader JAM 18.0
Surface/Ground Water Specialist OS 2.0
Water Quality Specialist SØD 1.0
Hydrology Modeller TVJ 3.25
Sediment Transport Modeller HGE 2.0
Ground Water Modeller PBH 0.75
Information Technology Specialist JTC 5.0
Research Hydrologist JCR 1.0
Research Social Scientist 1.0
Natural Resource Specialists 6.0
National Consultants
Hydrologist FS 9.0
Surface/Ground Water Specialist IM 12.0
Sediment Transport Specialist MJM 3.0
GIS Database Provider CM 15.0
System Developer AW 4.0
Research Strategy Leader WE 2.0
Natural Resource Specialists 4.0
2003 2004 2005

Dr Jacobsen has extensive experience in both the development and application of

integrated hydrologic models, to studies with similarities to the Okavango Delta eg
the Florida Everglades Restoration, as well as in training courses for staff in
organisations applying the technology.
Other staffing and the total staff input and finance remain unchanged at present.
DWA has accepted the need for the proposed changes, which are reflected in the
Consultants’ staffing schedule for the component (figure 5.1).
Input of Team Leader

The Team Leader has a total input of 20 months, comprising a long term input of
18 months in the first two years of the management plan up to April 2005, followed
by two months of short term inputs in the remaining 15 months. The overall project
schedule is delayed on two counts:
• The extended discussion over the approach to the development of the
Topographic Model (see section 4.5) has resulted in a delay of one to
two months in this activity
• The inception phase of the remaining eight ODMP components has
been extended by three months, to February 2004 – this is likely to have
an impact on the progress of the Water Resources component
It may therefore prove necessary to extend the long term input of the Team Leader
beyond April 2005. This is still 17 months in the future, and it is proposed to
reassess the situation nearer the time when a decision on this matter would be
required, some time in the second half of 2004.
5.1.3 DWA Staff

DWA has assigned an experienced engineering hydrologist from the Hydrology
Division, and an experienced hydrogeologist from the Ground Water Division
(recently transferred from DGS) to the Modelling Unit. DWA has also recently
recruited graduate engineers, two of whom have been assigned to the Modelling
Unit. A systems engineer and a GIS specialist from the IT Division will support the
unit on a part time basis. It is planned to give the staff specific responsibilities
within the unit.
In principle, the assignment of new graduates alongside experienced engineers is
sound. The new minds should be capable of rapidly acquiring the modelling skills,
under the guidance of the experienced engineers. DWA staff training is described
in section 4.4. The new graduates will require basic training in hydrology and
hydraulics, not envisaged in the Consultants’ proposal and contract.
Staff of the DWA Hydrology Division have been working with the Consultants in
the various project activities, including arrangements for accompanying on field
trips, data collection and evaluation, general project start up and recently the
collaboration with DSM on the delta gauge board survey. A formal assignment of
the regional staff to the project will result in a higher degree of participation.

5.2 Equipment
5.2.1 Project Vehicles
According to contract, a project vehicle has been provided by the Consultants from
Danida funds. This a is four wheel drive field vehicle, an Isuzu Trooper 3.1,
purchased by the Consultants in Denmark and shipped to Botswana, arriving on
14th July. Under the government to government agreement, the vehicle was cleared
through customs free of duties and taxes, and registered and insured on 18th July
2003.
The vehicle is operated by the Team Leader, and is used for official business in and
around Gaborone, and field trips to the delta. The Consultant is presently financing
the running costs; reimbursement by DWA is being processed through their
accounts department and NCSA. A log book of the vehicle’s use is maintained by
the Team Leader.
The Central Transport Organisation of the Botswana Government is obtaining a
second project vehicle primarily for DWA use. It is proposed that this vehicle is
also operated by the Team Leader, with the running costs reimbursed by DWA.
This may cause problems for the Consultants’ cash flow (see section 5.3, Project
Finances).
5.2.2 Computer Hardware

The Consultants in cooperation with the DWA IT Division have prepared a
specification for the computer hardware for the Modelling Unit, comprising five
personal computers and peripherals, described in detail in the Capacity Building in
DWA report. The planned layout is shown in figure 5.2.
Model Room
Surface Ground
Hydrology
Water Water
Data
Backup
Processing
Short Term
Team
HUB International
Leader
Experts
DWA LAN DWA LAN
Figure 5.2: Layout of Computers for DWA Modelling Unit

The Consultants had obtained six quotations from potential suppliers and, in
cooperation with DWA, selected the best in terms of equipment and price. The
recently ascertained procurement procedure requires supply through Botswana
owned companies, and retendering is in process. It is proving difficult to obtain the
five quotation required. The present DWA budget of BWP132,000 is sufficient to
purchase four computers. Some additional funds may be required to purchase the
fifth computer and a projector.
The computers will be set up on the DWA and Government of Botswana network,
with Internet and e-mail access. Two important generally available Internet
facilities are not available on the government network:
• File transfer protocol (FTP) is essential for exchanging large
amounts of information such as will be required for the management
plan over the Internet
• Virtual private network (VPN) is required to log into external
networks such as at DHI in Denmark – this facility will greatly
improve the efficiency of the modelling specialists
DWA is requested to provide these facilities in the Modelling Unit.
5.2.3 Computer Software

The Capacity Building in DWA report also sets out the recommended software for
the unit. This comprises three sets of the MIKE SHE – MIKE 11 software package,
developed by DHI, and incorporating ArcView GIS. The latest version of the
software will be delivered, and DHI will provide software support and upgrades for
the duration of the ODMP project.
The three packages will enable the modelling staff to work on the development of
the components (hydrology, surface water and ground water) separately in parallel.
A fourth package is recommended for purchase by HOORC, as a university license.
DWA initially had a budget of USD20,000 for modelling software. This was
recognised as inadequate in the Consultants’ proposal, and the Consultants’
accordingly allocated savings in the Topographic Survey budget to purchase one
software package. In the contract negotiations between Danida and the
Consultants, with the participation of the Government of Botswana, this partial
reallocation of funds was subjected to approval by the ODMP Project Steering
Committee.
The issue became confused with the Consultants’ approach to the Topographic
Survey (see section 4.5). After extensive discussions with the Project Management
Group, the issue has been resolved by NCSA and DWA. The Consultants will now
provide the first copy of the MIKE SHE – MIKE 11 software package from the
Danida budget.
The second and third copies will be purchased by DWA. DHI will provide these
copies within the DWA budget of BWP200,000. This represents a significant
discount over the normal prices, reflecting DHI’s close involvement with ODMP.
There is also as yet no budget for the fourth copy to be supplied to HOORC
(BWP112,500). HOORC research staff could provide invaluable long term support
to DWA and the ODMP in applying the modelling software to the Okavango Delta,
and to other catchments and rivers in Botswana.

5.2.4 Office Furniture and Equipment

DWA is planning to furnish the Modelling Unit office from the routine budget,
although it appears funds are not available from this source. Office equipment
(telefax and photocopier) has been purchased from the DWA ODMP budget.
Internet facilities will be available over the DWA and government network. DWA
is requested to extend these to FTP and VPN access (see section 5.2.2), normally
available over the Internet but blocked on the government network.
Office communications are funded from the DWA budget. The Team Leader has to
be in close contact with DWA and other concerned ODMP organisations, and has
accordingly requested DWA to meet the cost for the official use of a mobile
telephone. The Team Leader will spending several weeks of the project period in
Maun; most key ODMP staff use mobile telephones; the telephone lines into DWA
are often fully engaged, making it difficult for outside callers to call; and finally it
is not possible to call a mobile telephone from the government lines.
DWA provides senior staff with mobile telephones, and covers their use up to
BWP250. DWA is requested to provide this service to the Team Leader.
5.2.5 Monitoring
Comprehensive recommendations have been prepared for improvements to the
gauging stations operated and maintained by DWA in the delta, to provide a solid
database comprising long term systematic data that capture the range of hydrologic
events, and sequences of events. The monitoring equipment cover the key systems
in the delta: climatic, surface and ground water, and sediment transport. DWA has
a budget of BWP1,390,000 to implement the programme.
While the detailed specification, design and installation of the equipment proposed
requires specialist assistance, they can be operated and maintained by DWA
technical field staff, subject to a review of staff numbers and training needs.
5.3 Project Finances

5.3.1 Introduction
The Project is financed jointly by the Governments of Botswana and Denmark.
The finances have four broad components:
• Danida support to the two components totalling DKK11,250,4652, of
which DKK7,194,245 is for staff resources and DKK4,056,220 for
equipment and expenses
• German Development Service (DED) support to HOORC for
participatory planning, totalling USD190,000
• GoB support to HOORC totalling USD251,000, of which
USD52,000 is for staff resources and USD199,000 for equipment
and expenses
2
At October 2003 exchange rates, BWP1.00 is equivalent to DKK1.375 and USD0.215.

• GoB support to DWA totalling BWP2,514,000, of which

BWP180,000 is for staff resources and BWP2,334,000 for
equipment and expenses
5.3.2 Danida Project Finances

Danida finances totalling DKK11,250,465 are available for disbursement by the
Consultants according to the predicted cash flow. According to the Tender Dossier,
Appendix B, the Government of Botswana will provide funding for travel
accommodation and subsistence of local staff. In preparing the budget Consultant
has interpreted “local staff” to include national consultants, while DWA has
confirmed that “local staff” includes only DWA staff. There is as a result no
budget for the field trips and other local travel expenses for national consultants.
Additional funding is requested for this item amounting to DKK. A detailed
breakdown is given in table 5.1.
Table 5.1: Additional Danida Financing for Local Travel

RATE AMOUNT
CODE BUDGET HEAD DESCRIPTION UNIT QUANTITY
(DKK) (DKK)
B.2.4.1.1 Accommodation Short term National
day 510 600 306,000
Consultants in Maun
Long term National
month 16 4,100 65,600
Consultants in Maun
B.2.4.2.2 Subsistance Short term National
day 510 374 190,740
Allowance Consultants in Maun
TOTAL 562,340
According to the budget, while Danida funds have been utilised to purchase the
project vehicle, DWA will pay running costs. DWA has recently established the
procedure for the disbursement of funds allocated for ODMP (see section 5.3.3).
For the efficiency of the project logistics, the running of the project vehicle has
been financed by the Consultants from Danida funds. At the end of September
2003, these totalled BWP21,422.91, including the major item of the insurance
premium. It is anticipated that the Consultants will shortly be reimbursed by DWA.
It is further proposed that the Consultants initially meet the running costs of the
DWA project vehicle.
5.3.3 GoB Support to DWA

Funds totalling BWP2,514,000 have been made available by the Government of
Botswana to DWA to support the ODMP. The breakdown of the planned
expenditure is summarised in table 5.3.
Through the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Board, procedures have
recently been established enabling DWA to disburse these funds. An order for the
procurement of computer hardware and software for the Modelling Unit will be
given shortly, and the Consultant reimbursed around BWP22,000 for vehicle
running costs.

Of particular relevance and importance to the management plan is the expenditure

on monitoring. The Consultants have drafted recommendations for expenditure
exceeding BWP1,000,000 on improved monitoring in the delta in the course of
2004 (see section 4.3.2).
Table 5.3: DWA Project Finances

ITEM AMOUNT (BWP)
Staff Resources 180,000 + from revenue budget
Office 72,000 + from revenue budget
Transport 390,000
Computer Hardware and Software 332,000
Monitoring 1,390,000
Satellite Images 150,000
TOTAL 2,514,000

6 SUMMARY OF KEY ISSUES
6.1 Introduction
The following sections summarise the key issues raised in the Inception Report
with reference to the ODMP Logical Framework Assessment for the Hydrology
and Water Resources component, with recommendations for actions to address the
issues.
6.2 Improved Monitoring

A critical output of the Hydrology and Water Resources component is a quality
controlled database comprising existing climatic, hydrologic, surface and ground
water and sediment data for the Okavango Delta. In cooperation with DWA, the
Consultants have conducted an evaluation of the available data, and prepared
recommendations for improved monitoring of all data categories. The
recommendations comprise expenditure in excess of BWP1,000,000, for further
investigations, detailed specification of equipment and design of installations and
procurement of equipment.
It is recommended that the improved monitoring programme is urgently reviewed
by DWA and the PMG, the latter in the context of the ODMP. The programme
should be refined incorporating comments from the review, and implemented in the
course of 2004. Improved data could then become available for the management
planning process before the end of 2004, with some eighteen months remaining to
utilise these improved data to refine the plans.
As reported in section 4.2, DWA has already shown a strong commitment to
ODMP and monitoring in giving priority to a gauge board datum survey to be
carried out by DSM in November 2003.

The analysis of the hydrology of the Okavango Delta for ODMP rests substantially
with the application of the planned Integrated Hydrologic Model. The
sustainability of the application depends on the establishment of the capability in
DWA to operate the model and adapt it to changing needs in the long term. The
bases for the establishment of the DWA Modelling Unit are capable staff assigned
full time to the unit, and the computer system on which to set up and run the model.
Staffing
The Consultants have prepared a report Capacity Building in DWA, setting out the
staffing and computing requirements. In the course of the inception phase, DWA
Hydrology staff have been working alongside the Consultant on an occasional
basis. In December, four staff have been formally assigned to the Unit, and
correspondingly relieved of other duties. Existing staff resources were not
sufficient. DGS has transferred a Hydrogeologist to the DWA Ground Water
Division, and DWA has recruited university graduates two of whom have been
assigned to the Unit.

The staff should be given specific responsibilities within the unit. The staffing
level and progress in assimilating the modelling technology will be kept under
review.
Computers
DWA has received funds from the government for ODMP, including a budget for
computer hardware and software. Procedures have only recently been established
enabling DWA to disburse these funds.
The Consultants obtained quotations for the hardware and software, comprising
five personal computers and peripheral devices, and four modelling packages, one
of which would be passed to HOORC to provide support to DWA in the long term.
Danida funds permit the purchase of one modelling package, and DHI has agreed to
supply the second and third copies within the DWA software budget.
It has recently been determined that hardware tendering is limited to Botswana
suppliers. It is proving difficult to obtain the five quotations required. As this is
now delaying the work of the Modelling Unit, DWA should urgently complete the
procurement procedures to purchase the computers. It is further recommended that
an additional budget of BWP112,500 is allocated to acquire a university license for
the fourth modelling software package for HOORC.
Communications
Good communications are essential for the DWA Modelling Unit to function
efficiently, both within ODMP and internationally. In order to ensure this, DWA is
requested to provide the following additional lines:
• A mobile telephone for the team leader, according to normal
government rules
• For the efficient transfer of data and information, FTP and VPN
Internet access over the DWA LAN
6.4 Equipment
The Consultants have acquired a project vehicle from Danida funds. DWA has a
budget from the government to meet the running costs. The Consultants have met
the running costs to date, awaiting reimbursement from DWA which is now in
process. DWA is obtaining a second project vehicle from government funds. It is
also proposed that the Consultants operate the vehicle with running costs provided
by DWA.
In order not to jeopardise the Consultants’ cash flow, DWA is requested to provide
an advance to the Consultant to meet the running costs of both vehicles.
6.5 Danida Finances

As explained in section 5.3.2, there is no budget for field trips and other local travel
expenses for national consultants. Additional funding is requested for this item,
totalling DKK562,340.

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Project Reports
TITLE AUTHOR PUBLISHER DATE

Study of Open Water SMEC, DWA March 1987
Evaporation in Botswana Australia
Southern Okavango Integrated SMEC, DWA June 1987
Water Development – Phase 1 Australia
Ecological Zoning Okavango SMEC, Kalahari April 1989
Delta Australia Conservation
Society
Review of Southern Integrated IUCN IUCN October 1992
Water Development Project
Maun Ground Water Francis Sefe DWA March 1996
Development Project –
Hydrological Analysis
Feasibility Study on the BICON, DWA, Namibia August 1997
Okavango River to Namibia
Grootfontein Link of the LCE
Eastern National Water Carrier
– Vol 4, parts 1, 3 and 4 Parkmen
Okavango River Basin – Francis Sefe OKACOM February 1998
Climate and Water Resources
Botswana Wetlands Policy and Ecosurv NCSA February 1999
Strategy – Issues for National IUCN
Consultation
Okavango River Panhandle NRP Tawana Land December 2000 to
Management Plan – Technical Board March 2001
Proposal, Progress Reports 2
and 3
Design Mission Towards an HOORC NCSA April 2001
Integrated Management Plan
of the Okavango Delta
Hydrology, Water Quality and DHI Water and DANCED October 2001
Supply Component of the Environment
Proposed Okavango Delta
Management Plan – Pre-
Appraisal Report
Inception Report page R-1

TITLE AUTHOR PUBLISHER DATE

Integrated Management Plan NCSA-IUCN December 2001
for the Okavango Delta –
Mission Report
Okavango Delta Management National October 2002
Plan – Project Proposal Conservation
Strategy Agency
Rapid Biological Assessment Alonso LE, RAP Bulletin of 2003
of Aquatic Ecosystems of Nordin L-A Biological
Okavango Delta: High Water Assessment
Survey
Transboundary Rivers, Turton, Ashton African Water 2003
Sovereignty and Development: and Cloete Issues Research
Hydropolitical Drivers in Unit, South
Okavango River Basin Africa and Green
Cross
International,
Switzerland
Identification of Blockages in C Naidu DWA February 2003
Okavango Delta: Causes and Kurugundla
Effects (draft)
Biodiversity Strategy and IUCN and NCSA July 2003
Action Plan – Stocktaking Ecosurv
Report (draft)
Prefeasibility Study for Popa Water Transfer NamPower August 2003
Falls Hydropower Project Consultants,
(draft) Namibia
Prefeasibility Study for Popa Water Transfer NamPower August 2003
Falls Hydropower Project – Consultants,
Preliminary Environmental Namibia
Assessment (draft)
Management Plan for the Ngamiland
Okavango River Panhandle District
Rainfall Observation Network Piotr Wolski HOORC December 2003
in the Okavango Delta Anneloes de
Wit
page R-2 Inception Report

Scientific Papers
(1) Wolski P, Gumbricht T, McCarthy TS: Assessing Future Change in the Okavango
Delta: Use of a Regression Model of the Maximum Annual Flood in a Monte Carlo
Simulation, submitted for publication
(2) Ramberg L, Wolski P, Krah M: Water Balance on a Seasonal Floodplain in the
Okavango Delta, submitted for publication
(3) McCue KM, Burger P, von Christierson B: Development of an Integrated Surface
Water and Ground Water Interaction Model for Volusia County’s Tiger Bay/Bennett
Swamp, Proceedings of DHI Software Conference, Orlando, 2002
(4) Bauer P, Brunner P, Kinzelbach W: Quantifying the Net Exchange of Water
Between Land and Atmosphere in the Okavango Delta, Institute of Hydromechanics
and Water Resources Management, Zurich
(5) Bauer P et al: Is Density Flow Balancing the Salt Budget of the Okavango Delta?
Evidence from Field and Modelling Studies, Institute of Hydromechanics and Water
Resources Management, Zurich
(6) Ellery WN, McCarthy TS, Dangerfield JM: Floristic Diversity in Okavango Delta as
an Endogenous Product of Biological Activity, Biodiversity in Wetlands, vol 1, 2000
(7) Jason Y, Hopkins E, Sørensen HR, Kjelds JT: Integrated Hydrologic Wetland
Modelling in South Florida, ASCE Water Resources and Hydrology Conference,
Seattle, August 1999
(8) Report of the Expert Group Meeting on Strategic Approaches to Freshwater
Management, UNDESA, Harare, January 1998
(9) Seen LO et al: An Approach to Couple Vegetation Functioning and Soil-Vegetation-
Atmosphere Transfer Models for Semi-Arid Grasslands, Agriculture and Forest
Meteorology, 1997
(10) Ellery WN, McCarthy TS: Environmental Change over Two Decades since Dredging
and Excavation of Lower Boro River, Okavango Delta, Journal of Biogeography, vol
25, 1998
(11) McCarthy TS and Ellery WN: Failure of Nqoga Channel between Hamoga and
Letenetso Islands, North Eastern Okavango Delta, Botswana Notes and Records, vol
27
(12) Merry CL et al: GPS Heightening in Okavango Delta, Journal of Surveying
Engineering, Nov 1998
(13) McCarthy et al: Gradient of Okavango Fan, and its Sedimentological and Tectonic
Implications, Journal of African Earth Sciences, vol 24, 1997
(14) McCarthy TS, Ellery WN, Bloem A: The Gradient on the Okavango Fan and its
Sedimentological and Tectonic Implications, Journal of African Affairs Earth
Science, 1997.
(15) McCarthy TS, Ellery WN, Bloem A: Observations on the Geomorphological Impact
of Hippopotamus in the Okavango Delta, African Journal of Ecology, 1997
Inception Report page R-3

(16) Smith ND, McCarthy TS, Ellery WN, Merry CL, Ruther H: Avulsion and
Anastomosis in the Panhandle Region of the Okavango Fan, Geomorphology, 1997
(17) McCarthy TS, Bloem A, Larkin PA: Observations on the Hydrology and
Geohydrology of the Okavango Delta, South African Journal of Geology, 1997
(18) Ellery WN, McCarthy TS: Fluvial Dynamics of Maunachira Channel System, North
Eastern Okavango Swamps, Water SA, vol 23, Apr 1997
(19) Haruyama S, Ohokura H, Simking T, Ramphin: Geomorphological Zoning for Flood
Inundation using Satellite Data, GeoJournal, Vol 38.3, March 1996
(20) Ellery WN, Ellery K, Rogers KH, McCarthy TS: Role of Cyperus Papyrus L in
Channel Blockage and Abandonment in North Eastern Okavango Delta, African
Journal of Ecology, vol 33, 1995
(21) Ellery WN, McCarthy TS: Principles for Sustainable Utilisation of Okavango Delta
Ecosystem, Biological Conservation, 1994
(22) Stanistreet IG, McCarthy TS: The Okavango Fan and the Classification of Subaerial
Fan Systems, Sedimentary Geology, 1993
(23) Stanistreet IG, Cairncross B: Low Sinuosity and Meandering Bedload Rivers of the
Okavango Fan, Sedimentary Geology, 1993
(24) McCarthy TS, Green RW, Franey NJ: The Influence of Neo-Tectonics on Water
Dispersal in the North Eastern Regions of the Okavango Swamp, Journal of African
Earth Sciences, 1993
(25) Ellery WN et al: Vegetation, Hydrology and Sedimentation Processes as
Determinants of Channel Form and Dynamics in the North Eastern Okavango Delta,
African Journal of Ecology, Vol 93, 1993
(26) McCarthy TS, Ellery WN, Stanistreet IG: Avulsion Mechanisms on the Okavango
Fan, Sedimentology, 1992
(27) McCarthy TS: Physical and Biological Processes Controlling the Okavango Delta,
Botswana Notes and Records, Vol 24, 1992
(28) McCarthy TS, Stanistreet IG, Cairncross B: The Sedimentary Dynamics of Active
Channels on the Okavango Fan, Sedimentology, 1991
(29) McCarthy TS, Stanistreet IG, Cairncross B: The Sedimentary Dynamics of Active
Fluvial Channels on the Okavango Fan, Sedimentology, 1991
(30) Ellery WN et al: Formation, Colonisation and Fate of Floating Sudds in the
Maunachira River System of the Okavango Delta, Aquatic Botany, Vol 38, 1990
(31) McCarthy TS, Metcalfe J: Chemical Sedimentation in the Semi-Arid environment of
the Okavango Delta, Chemical Geology, 1990
(32) McCarthy TS et al: Incremental Aggradation on the Okavango Delta Fan,
Geomorphology, 1988
page R-4 Inception Report

ANNEX A – ODMP LOGICAL FRAMEWORK ASSESSMENT

The LFA for the Hydrology and Water Resources component from the ODMP Project Proposal is reproduced, incorporating a column with
comments on any adjustments made. The numbers in square brackets refer to the sections in the text of this Inception Report where the issues
are discussed in detail.
ODMP PROJECT PROPOSAL ADJUSTMENTS ODMP PROJECT PROPOSAL ADJUSTMENTS
OBJECTIVE OUTCOMES/OUTPUTS
Improved water resources planning, [2.1] Outcomes: [3.3]
monitoring and evaluation and field
1. Improved knowledge and
interventions in the Okavango Delta
understanding of the hydrology of
based on an enhanced capacity of the
the Okavango Delta informing
Ministry of Minerals, Energy and
planning, decision making and
Water Affairs.
operations.
There are two crucial components to [3.3] 2. Increased water supply and Impact analysis based on model
the overall objective: sanitation coverage and reduced simulations of surface and ground
production of harmful waste in the water abstraction scenarios [4.7].
• Informed decisions are taken on
Okavango Delta.
envisaged water resources
interventions and climatic scenarios
within the entire Okavango River
Basin.
• Build capacity and capability [3.4] 3. Results of monitoring and [4.3]
within the Ministry of Minerals, evaluation activities inform and
Energy and Water Affairs with improve decision making and
respect to water resources operational management in the
management in general and Okavango Delta.
hydrological modelling in
particular.
Inception Report page A-1


OBJECTIVE OUTCOMES/OUTPUTS
Outputs: [4.6]
1.1 Comprehensive integrated [4.7]
hydrological model
[4.4]
1.2 Hydrological impact assessment
of selected water resources
management interventions
1.3 DWA staff reports and
demonstrations of the operational
hydrological model
2.1 A water supply plan for the The water supply and waste
Okavango Delta management plans are covered by the
National Water Master Plan and the
2.2 A waste management plan for the
National Sanitation and Wastewater
Okavango Delta
Management Plan. The model will
2.3 Successful demonstration simulate scenarios having a bearing
activities on water supply and waste on physical parameters [4.7]. The
management in the Okavango Delta Integrated Hydrologic Model will not
at this stage include water quality.
3.1 A hydro climatic monitoring [4.2]
needs assessment
3.2 Hydro climatic monitoring
equipment installed and producing
data
3.3 A pollution monitoring needs
assessment and strategy
3.4 Initial production of relevant
pollution data


ACTIVITIES (INDICATIVE) ACTIVITIES (ACTUAL) ASSUMPTIONS/VERIFICATIONS
Inception Phase of 6 months will • Available data has been collected, There is one important assumption The issue of capacity building in
include the following main activities: processed and evaluated [4.2] that is considered to involve a DWA is a critical issue. Staff have
• Recommendations have been made significant risk not only to the only recently been assigned to the
• Mobilisation
for an improved monitoring implementation of the Hydrology and Modelling Unit (December 2003),
• Inception consultancies, review of programme for climatic, surface, Water Resources Component but in and the purchase of computers is
literature and purchase of satellite ground water and water quality data particular to the long term presently being processed. The
images and topographic-survey [4.3] sustainability of the envisaged Consultant has prepared an outline
building of water resources training programme, and a three
• Data review • Five DWA staff should be
management capacity within the GoB stage assessment procedure to be
formally assigned to the Modelling
• Initial setting-up of pilot and consequently also to the long conducted with DWA project
Unit in December 2003 – a training
hydrological model term implementation of the management [4.4]:
needs assessment will be conducted
Okavango Management Plan: that
• Field campaign (instrumentation, shortly thereafter [4.4] • An initial needs assessment, based
DWA makes a long-term
climatic stations and inflow checks) • An outline of the training on the individual education and
commitment to ensure full ownership
programme in hydrologic experience levels
• Training need assessment and of the Hydrology and Water
modelling for the DWA staff has Resources Component and in • A second assessment, following the
recruitment of trainees
been prepared [4.4] particular the aspect of hydrology implementation of the in-country
• Inception Report • DWA has finalised procedures to modelling development and capacity training programme, with
purchase equipment, and quotations building. recommendations for further
for computer equipment are being training, including overseas
evaluated [4.4]
• A final assessment at the end of the
• Activities to establish the
project, with recommendations for
Topographic Model of the delta are
further staff development
underway [4.5]
• The draft Inception Report has been
prepared and comments received
for incorporation in the final
version [4.8]


ACTIVITIES (INDICATIVE) ACTIVITIES (ACTUAL) ASSUMPTIONS/VERIFICATIONS
An initial setup of the Integrated
Hydrologic Model has not been
prepared owing to the need to collect
and evaluate available data, and the
establishment of the Topographic
Model on which the hydrlogic model
depends. [4.6]

ANNEX B – WORKING PAPERS

MAIN
NO TITLE CONTENTS CONTRIBUTORS DATE
AUTHOR
1 Capacity Building Staffing and training, and specification of hardware Alasdair - June 2003
in DWA and software for the DWA Modelling Unit Macdonald
2 Assessment of Assessment of the formal and on-the-job training Alasdair - November
DWA Training needs of the DWA staff assigned to the Modelling Macdonald 2003
Needs I Unit
3 Modelling Concept Presentation of the concept of the Integrated Alasdair - October
Hydrologic Model of the Okavango Delta Macdonald 2003
4 Hydrologic and Evaluation of the available climatic, hydrometric, Francis Sefe Israel Mabua November
Hydrogeologic Data sediment transport, hydrogeologic and topographic 2003
data for the Okavango Delta
5 Recommendations Recommendations to improve the procedures for and Steen Dahl Ole Smith November
on Improved extend the scope of the data collection and 2003
Monitoring management (including institutional aspects,
equipment, staff and training)
6 Methodology to Set Evaluation of available remotely sensed data, and Mikael - November
Up a Topographic derivation of the methodology to set up the Kamp 2003
Model Topographic Model of the Okavango Delta Sørensen
7 Topographic Model Report on the data, processing and set up of the Mikael - February
of the Okavango Topographic Model of the Okavango Delta Kamp 2004
Delta Sørensen
8 Fluvial Morphology Review of sources of information, evaluation of the Margaret - January
and Geology of the data, and description of the fluvial morphology and McFarlane 2004
Okavango Delta geology of the Okavango Delta
Inception Report page B-1

MAIN
NO TITLE CONTENTS CONTRIBUTORS DATE
AUTHOR
9 Assessment of Review of the formal and on-the-job training of the Alasdair - July 2004
DWA Training DWA staff assigned to the Modelling Unit, and an Macdonald
Needs II assessment of the oversees training needs
10 Integrated Report on the set up and calibration of the Integrated Alasdair Torsten V Jakobsen August
Hydrologic Model Hydrologic Model of the Okavango Delta Macdonald Per Bøgelund Hansen
2004
of the Okavango
Delta Hans Gustav Enggrob
11 Preliminary Model Determination of the scenarios whose impact will be Alasdair Francis Sefe September
Scenarios for analysed with the Integrated Hydrologic Model of the Macdonald 2004
ODMP Okavango Delta
12 Preliminary Results Preliminary report on the results of the scenarios Alasdair Torsten V Jakobsen December
of Model Scenarios whose impact has been analysed applying the Macdonald Per Bøgelund Hansen
2004
for ODMP Integrated Hydrologic Model of the Okavango Delta
Hans Gustav Enggrob
13 Results of Model Report on the results of the scenarios whose impact Alasdair Torsten V Jakobsen February
Scenarios for has been analysed applying the Integrated Hydrologic Macdonald Per Bøgelund Hansen
2005
ODMP Model of the Okavango Delta
Hans Gustav Enggrob
14 Status of DWA Review of the establishment of the Modelling Unit in Modelling Modelling Unit Staff March
Modelling Unit DWA and the capacity building programme. Unit Alasdair Macdonald 2005
Manager
Inception Report page B-2

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Government of Kingdom of Denmark Government of Republic of Botswana

Ministry of Foreign Affairs National Conservation and Strategy Agency

Okavango Delta Management Plan

Scanagri Denmark A/S

OKAVANGO DELTA MANAGEMENT PLAN

2 OBJECTIVE AND OUTPUTS

Inception Report page i

List of Contents (cont)

6 SUMMARY OF KEY ISSUES

ANNEX A – LOGICAL FRAMEWORK ASSESSMENT

ANNEX B – WORKING PAPERS

page ii Inception Report

3.1 Okavango River Basin

4.1 Hydrology and Water Resources Activity Schedule

5.1 Project Staff Schedule

Inception Report page iii

List of Abbreviations and Acronyms

page iv Inception Report

Hydrology and Water Resources

Inception Report page S-1

Page S-2 Inception Report

Existing Conditions in Delta

ODMP Impact Analyses

Capacity Building in DWA

Inception Report page S-3

be assessed periodically. Any need for a change of approach or emphasis will be

Page S-4 Inception Report

Inception Report page 1-1

1. Policy, planning and strategy (including communication)

2. Research, data management and training

3. Hydrology and water resources

6. Fisheries and animal health

9. Land use planning and land management

10. Local authority services provision

Figure 1.1: ODMP Components

page 1-2 Inception Report

Scanagri in association with DHI,

INT Team Leader/hydrologist Deputy team leader/biodiversity INT

INT/NAT Surface water Biodiversity & other experts INT/REG/NAT

INT/NAT Ground water IT specialists INT/REG/NAT

INT/NAT River morphologist

INT Water quality

INT/NAT Surface and ground water

INT/NAT Specialist back up

QA Team – Project Director – Project Monitor

Figure 1.2: Consultants’ Team

1.3 Inaugural Workshop and Steering Committee

Inception Report page 1-3

1.4 Technical Task Force

1.5 Report Structure

Inception Report page 1-5

page 1-6 Inception Report

2 OBJECTIVE AND OUTPUTS

Inception Report page 2-1

(2) Recommendations on the improvement and expansion of the Okavango

2.3 Quality Assurance

page 2-2 Inception Report

3.1 Okavango River Basin and Delta

Figure 3.1: Okavango River Basin

Inception Report page 3-1

page 3-2 Inception Report

Figure 3.2: Okavango Delta