Mozambique could once again experience a new wave of drought, aggravating the situation of food insecurity that is already affecting thousands of families.

Meteorologists' forecasts indicate that at least six districts will have a shortage of rain in the rainy season that begins in October.

After a year of drought caused by the El Niño weather phenomenon, which left many families dependent on food aid in several districts of the country's southern and central provinces, the forecast for the next rainy season is not encouraging for some of the already vulnerable areas.

Forecasts from the National Meteorological Institute (INAM) indicate that in the first half of the rainy season, namely from October to December, the districts of Magude, Mabalane, Chibuto (in Gaza), Chemba and Caia (Sofala) and Changara, in Tete, could see their hopes in the countryside lost due to yet another wave of drought.

"This forecast points to a time when very long periods without precipitation can be recorded. That's why we're predicting a high probability of drought in some districts in the south and center of the country," said Bernardino Nhantudo, a climatologist at INAM.

In this regard, data provided by humanitarian agencies indicate that thousands of families are facing hunger in several districts.

According to a VOAIn the provinces of Gaza, for example, there are reports that at least 6,000 families are in need of food assistance following crop losses due to the El Niño phenomenon.

In the same publication, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development does not confirm the figures, but stresses that despite the loss of crops, the situation is not so serious, "because families have alternatives".

"The situation is not as serious as Malawi and Zambia, which had a severe drought. We've had a reduction in income. There is undoubtedly a cry from family sector producers, but they have alternatives such as growing cassava and sweet potatoes that can tolerate this issue of rainfall," said Hiten Shah, a member of the National Directorate of Family Farming.

(Photo DR)