The Zimbabwe Metrological Office has predicted normal-to-above-normal rainfall, which may possibly be an indicator for good agricultural season in which a bumper harvest can be expected if there is a fair spread of rains.
Though some areas in Matebelaland have received early summer rains the Met Office has said the rains will be more effective between November and December, with no flash floods or violent storms.
Speaking during a Climate Conference recently Zimbabwe’s Minister of Environment, Climate Change, Tourism and International Trade Mangaliso Ndlovu said the rainfall forecast was important as it would be used by all sectors to plan.
“Multi-sectoral stakeholders will use this planning tool, which is critical for enhancing socio-economic development of the nation since weather, and climate information is invaluable to all sectors of the economy, especially as we work towards achieving a middle-class economy by 2030.
“The forecast is for total cumulative seasonal rainfall amounts and is expressed relative to the long-term averages particular to specific locations.
“It should be used together with the periodic updates: daily, 3-day and 10-day forecasts, issued by the Meteorological Services Department to account for the distribution of rainfall during the season,” he said.
Different sectors represented at the forum gave indications of the normal to above normal rainfall, with the Disaster Risk Reduction saying there was need for public awareness and sensitisation, continuous communication between Met Services and the Department of Civil Protection, strengthening of early warning systems for cyclones and floods and the need to strengthen responsive social support as part of recovery strategy.
Agriculture expert Rutendo Nhonhonhema, said farmers should choose the correct crop varieties.
“High rainfall means an increase in livestock diseases. Farmers should therefore stock up on dipping chemicals and ensure consistent dipping,” said Mrs Nhonhonhema.
For water resources, the rainfall forecast implies filling up of the large dams and overflowing of the small dams.
“Power plants are supposed to be fully operational so that electricity can be generated to the maximum to ensure that no water is lost.
“There is need for maximum generation of electricity to ensure that there is enough electricity to avoid power cuts,” said energy sector representatives.
Water departments encouraged rehabilitation and maintenance of reservoirs and dams.
Meteorological Services said there was need for the nation to continue with water harvesting programmes, conservation agriculture practices, borehole drilling and deepening, rehabilitation of irrigation schemes, and protection of wetlands.