Mike Mposha, Zambian Minister of Green Economy and Environment, has warned that rains in some parts of the country are expected to begin in October this year.
He stated that the rain is predicted to commence in Western Province, Northern Luapula, and Northwest Province. While the season is expected to begin in Central, Copperbelt, Lusaka, and Southern Province, as well as the southern sections of Muchinga and Northern Province, it will most likely begin in late November 2024.
The minister made this declaration in parliament yesterday during the first sitting of the fourth session of the 13th National Assembly.
Despite the rains began early in some locations, the minister stated that some areas like as the North, Eastern Part including Luangwa, Gwembe and Sinazongwe districts are expected to receive delayed onset which will begin by mid December this year.
Mposha predicted that the rains will last until March 2025 in the southern hemisphere and finish in April in the eastern hemisphere, including the northern half of Luapula and the northern provinces.
He also provided a thorough forecast and important rainfall patterns for October, November, and December, noting that the majority of the country is expected to get normal to above-average rainfall.
However, the northern districts of Eastern, Muchinga, and Luapula provinces may receive normal to below-average rainfall during this time.
“The 2023-2024 rainy season was marked by a severe drought caused by El Niño. Zambia’s primary economic sectors and people have suffered greatly as a result of the current climate.
“The Agriculture sector which is one of the cornerstones of our economy suffered unprecedented losses, with maize production declining by over 50 percent.
This shortfall led to a food deficit affecting over 6 million people and contributing to a sharp increase in food pricing,” said Mposha.
