By Ollus Ndomu
As Zambia braces for varying weather patterns in times ahead, concerns over food security loom large, with dry spells and poor rainfall threaten agricultural productivity in major farming regions —Southern and Central Provinces.
The latest weather bulletin issued by the Zambia Meteorological Department, dated 12th February 2024, paints a challenging picture for the country’s agricultural sector. While some regions anticipate rainfall exceeding 50mm, others face minimal precipitation, exacerbating the risk of crop failure and food insecurity.
According to the report, Northern, Luapula, and Muchinga Provinces, alongside the northern parts of Northwestern, Copperbelt, and Eastern Provinces, are expected to experience significant rainfall. However, Southern and Central Provinces, known as the maize belts and major contributors to Zambia’s maize production, are grappling with adverse weather conditions.
The Zambia Meteorological Department’s forecast highlights the disparity in weather patterns across the country. In areas like Northern, Luapula, and Muchinga Provinces, mornings are characterized by partly cloudy and slightly windy conditions, with isolated rain, while afternoons see mainly cloudy skies with showers and thunderstorms. Conversely, Western, Southern, Lusaka, and Central Provinces experience windy conditions with minimal rainfall and warm to hot temperatures.
Experts warn that the dry spells and poor rainfall in Southern and Central Provinces pose a significant threat to food security. Maize, the staple food crop in Zambia, faces the risk of withering due to insufficient moisture, potentially leading to a nationwide hunger crisis.
In response to the impending food crisis, agricultural stakeholders and policymakers emphasize the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact.
Farmers are urged to implement water conservation techniques, such as mulching and proper soil management, to optimize water usage and preserve crop yields.
Experts say government intervention is crucial to support affected communities and ensure access to food supplies during these challenging times.
The Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with humanitarian organizations, is called to prioritize assistance to vulnerable populations and implement strategies for long-term agricultural resilience.
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