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Table 2 Summary of Mozambique aquifers (modified from Groundwater Consultants Bee Pee (Pty) Ltd and SRK Consulting (Pty) Ltd 2002)
Aquifer system | Occurrence | Lithology | Permeability |
|---|---|---|---|
Post-Karoo Formation | Most of southern part of the Country | Sandstones, limestones, conglomerates and alluvial deposits | Low productivity in sandstone formations. High salinity waters (TDS up to 8500 mg/l). High yields in limestones (50–120 m3/h) and alluvial plains (up to 200 m3/h) |
Karoo Formation | Limpopo, Rovuma and Zambezi valley | Clastic sedimentary units, basalts and rhyolites | Low yields (average 1.5 m3/h) and very saline waters (TDS up 7000 mg/l) |
Basement Complex | North and Centre of the Country | Metamorphosed and intrusive rocks | 1–2 m3/h occasionally up to 6 m3/h. Fractures and faults may increase yields to 40–70 m3/h |