The disproportionately low rainfall received in the northern regions of the country is likely to lead to a drought, which could leave thousands of people at risk of starvation due to crop failure.
Omusati governor Erginus Endjala says some farmers are already feeling the effects of drought, while others are facing a looming drought that is likely to have devastating effects.
“Many people are already crying because of drought and it is very sad. A month ago, we were battling the flood effects and now, at the same time, we are dealing with drought. Many parts of the north did not receive sufficient rain and soon our dams will dry up and we will go thirsty. We need to prepare ourselves early and be on alert at all times,” he said.
Mahangu farmers in the northern regions are having sleepless nights, as crops they had planted during the peak of the rainy season have dried up. Most crops are wilting under the withering heat.
Many of these farmers are anticipating a poor harvest, as their crops continue to wilt due to moisture stress.
Hendrina Immanuel from Onaushe village in Oshana region told The Namibian that she is worried because her crops are under acute moisture stress due to the prolonged dry spell.
“The last time our area received showers was around a month ago. No major rainfall has been reported thereafter. I do not know how to overcome the losses, as a lot of money was spent on cultivating the fields and buying seed. We do not know if the rain is coming,” she said.
Several areas that experienced floods due to the flash floods from Angola in January are notably also now affected by the extended dry spell due to the prolonged absence of rain.
The farmers also fear they might face a shortage of grazing for their animals, as most of the floodplains and water catchment areas are still dry.
Another farmer, David Simeon, who is feeling the impact of the dry spell, said his crops might produce a reduced yield and the shifts in rainfall frequency and intensity could lead to heavy crop losses.
“We have lost hope, because we do not know if the rain is still coming or not. We depend on crops for our survival and we do not think we will eat if it does not rain this month. The rainy season is almost over and yet our fields are still dry,” he said.
On Tuesday, the Road Fund Administration (RFA) handed over an amount totalling N$600 000 to support the three most flood-affected regions – to Oshana, Omusati and Ohangwena – with each region receiving N$200 000.
RFA chief executive officer Ali Ipinge said while some parts of the country received abnormal and above normal rainfall, some parts are faced with looming drought.
“Climate change and its impact on rainfall patterns and conditions, has led to some parts of the subcontinent receiving abnormal and above average rains in some parts, with immense damage to properties and loss of lives. Equally, some parts of the country, even in in the same regions, are facing looming drought. Times like these teach us that the changes in climatic conditions will remain with us for a long time and calls upon the wits and tenacity of mankind to learn and adopt new ways of living,” he said.
Source - https://www.namibian.com.na
