Its great for a little walk or a sundowner from the car. Dont go swimming, bilharzia. At the end of the dam road is a protected water base station (Mindu dam is fresh water supply for town). Askaris will chase you away. But you can easily stay far from them. Bring your binoculars, lots of birds! Leave your car before the dam to avoid any conflict.
So, found out (the hard way) that its actually not allowed for the public to visit that area. DO NOT make the mistake and adventure yourselves out there.