Minister of State in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), Hamad Yussuf Masauni, has begun a two-day visit to Morogoro to assess the region’s preparedness for El Niño rains and identify vulnerable areas and infrastructure before heavy rainfall sets in.
The visit, which runs from September 28 to 29, focuses on drainage systems, culverts, bridges and waterways to establish whether they are in good condition to safely handle increased water flows.
Mr Masauni said the exercise was aimed at identifying potential flood risks early enough for corrective measures to be taken, while ensuring residents living in flood-prone areas, including river valleys and riverbanks, receive timely warnings.
He also called on the media to play a greater role in educating the public about El Niño and the precautions communities can take before heavy rains arrive.
Morogoro District Commissioner Mussa Kilakala said the region was taking early measures because of its geographical characteristics, including the presence of rivers, valleys and low-lying areas that can increase the risk of flooding.
“Morogoro is among the regions that can experience flooding due to the presence of rivers, valleys and low-lying areas, making early preparedness critical in protecting lives, property, crops and infrastructure,” he said.
Assistant Regional Administrative Secretary in charge of Planning and Coordination, Edina Katalaiya, said the region had prepared an El Niño response plan focusing on timely dissemination of weather information, identification of vulnerable areas and preparation of temporary shelters for people who may be affected.
She said authorities were also clearing rivers, drainage channels, culverts and bridges to remove obstructions that could restrict water flow and trigger flooding.
Ms Katalaiya said vulnerable areas across councils were being mapped, while ward, village, street leaders and disaster management committees were being trained on preparedness and how to identify warning signs associated with El Niño conditions.
“We are continuing to mobilise financial resources, equipment, medicines and medical supplies, while also preparing rescue teams to assist residents in the event of flooding,” she said.
Under the preparedness plan, she said weather information from the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) would continue to be disseminated to the public through the media, local government leaders, religious leaders and other stakeholders.
The measures come as authorities seek to reduce the potential impact of heavy rains by addressing flood risks before emergencies occur.