CTPD CALLS FOR PLANNING AHEAD OF ANTICIPATED FLOODS

By Scoop Reporter

THE Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) has encouraged the Government to take timely and appropriate measures in anticipation of above-average normal rainfall in Zambia during the 2024/2025 rainy seasons.

CTPD Researcher-Climate Change and Environment Solomon Mwampikita said the potential transitions from El Niño to La Niña will present the usual challenges such as flooding and increased risks for waterborne diseases.

The challenges, he said, have often burdened poor communities in previous years, making it harder for their well-being.

He said it is for this reason that the Government is encouraged to invest in advanced technology and human resources to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of weather forecasts and early warnings to ensure that communities are well-prepared to respond in the event of a disaster.

He said there was a need to strengthen disaster preparedness by adequately allocating sufficient resources to develop and implement comprehensive disaster preparedness plans.

He said while the expected increase in rainfall will benefit the country, especially for hydroelectricity production and agriculture, it also calls for proactive measures to address potential challenges such as flooding, landslides, and waterborne diseases like cholera.

“These efforts will not only address flooding, but also help prevent the outbreak of waterborne diseases, especially cholera, which has affected many areas during the rainy seasons.

“The heavy rains experienced in early 2023, which affected over 154,000 people across nine provinces, serve as a reminder of the risks associated with excessive rainfall,” he said.