Kibaha farmers warned over El Niño rains

KIBAHA: KIBAHA Municipal Council in Coast Region has urged farmers and livestock keepers in Mbwawa Ward to take precautionary measures ahead of the anticipated El Niño rains to minimise potential losses.

The council’s agriculture, livestock and fisheries experts issued the warning during an awareness exercise in the ward, particularly targeting residents living and conducting agricultural activities in low-lying areas.

The experts urged farmers and livestock keepers to closely follow weather forecasts and take early measures, noting that heavy rains expected over a three-month period could have serious impacts on crops, livestock and livelihoods.

Kibaha Municipal Council Agriculture and Livestock Officer Dr Deogratius Mgute said farmers and livestock keepers living and working along the Ruvu River should relocate to safer areas before the rains begin to protect their livestock and crops.

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Speaking to farmers cultivating in the Ruvu River valley, Dr Mgute advised them not to plant at present but wait until the rainy period was over to avoid potential losses. He said the expected heavy rains could destroy crops, particularly in lowlying areas prone to flooding.

“For those who have already prepared their farms, I advise them to plant crops that can withstand heavy rains and change their farming methods by constructing ridges,” Dr Mgute said.

He also advised livestock keepers to reduce their herds by selling some animals and depositing the proceeds in banks. Dr Mgute said the money could later be used to purchase livestock after the rainy season, helping farmers protect their wealth from losses associated with the El Niño rains.

The council has continued urging residents living in lowlying areas to relocate to safer places during the period when heavy rains are expected. Mbwawa Ward is among the areas where many residents depend on livestock keeping and farming in the Ruvu River valley.