By Samuel Mbewe
LUSAKA, Zambia — In light of the increasing unpredictability of rainfall patterns, especially in drought-prone regions such as Southern Province, sustainability and climate change expert Albert Somanje is urging farmers to diversify their crop choices.
According to Mr. Somanje, planting drought-tolerant crops such as cassava, millet, and sorghum can provide viable alternatives to maize, which is highly susceptible to inconsistent rainfall and water shortages.
“Maize has long been a staple crop in Zambia, but with changing weather patterns, it’s becoming more challenging to rely on it alone,” said Mr. Somanje.
“Farmers must expand their crop portfolios to include varieties that are more resilient to drought. Crops like cassava, millet, and sorghum can withstand drier conditions, helping mitigate hunger challenges during years of poor rainfall.”
Southern Province, which has seen an increasing frequency of droughts and water scarcity, has been particularly vulnerable to these shifts.
Mr. Somanje believes that by integrating drought-tolerant crops into their farming systems, local farmers can secure more stable food supplies, even when maize yields are low.
Albert Somanje – sustainability and climate change expert
Meanwhile, the Zambia Meteorological Department has been closely monitoring the weather situation. Director Edson Nkonde provided an update on the current state of rainfall in the country.
According to Mr. Nkonde, limited rainfall was recorded between December 13 and 17 in parts of Southern Province and Lusaka, further contributing to concerns about crop performance in these areas.
However, Mr. Nkonde reassured that the situation would improve, with more rainfall expected between December 18 and 22. This forecasted rain could help alleviate the dry conditions, especially in the affected regions, offering hope for improved agricultural prospects in the coming weeks.
The combined efforts of farmers diversifying their crops and favorable weather conditions could play a critical role in ensuring food security in Zambia as the country grapples with the ongoing impacts of climate change.
With a proactive approach to climate-resilient farming, experts believe Zambia can better withstand future weather challenges and sustain its agricultural productivity.
