By Burnett Munthali
Heavy rainfall in Nkhata Bay South has destroyed 138 hectares of rice, cassava, and maize, affecting 601 households under Senior Chief Fukamapiri and Traditional Authorities Malengamzoma and Zilakoma.
The devastating impact of the floods has prompted Jonah Duwe, an Agriculture Extension Development Officer for Tukombo Extension Planning Area, to urge farmers to immediately switch to winter cropping to combat hunger.
Duwe emphasized the need for planting early-maturing crops rather than waiting for relief, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Speaking during a crop inspection tour with Nkhata Bay South legislator Chinthu Phiri, Duwe noted that submerged cassava tubers may rot within three days, prompting farmers to conduct premature harvests.
In her remarks, legislator Chinthu Phiri said she will be engaging the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) for formal intervention while coordinating immediate local relief efforts.
Phiri further advised farmers to refrain from cultivating crops along river banks and carelessly cutting down trees to mitigate the impact of future floods.
To provide immediate relief, Phiri distributed maize flour to some of the most affected households, a gesture aimed at alleviating their suffering.
The situation in Nkhata Bay highlights the vulnerability of Malawi’s agricultural sector to extreme weather events, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions.
