Mwanza prepares for possible El Niño emergencies

MWANZA: THE Fire and Rescue Force in Mwanza has already received proper and modern equipment to respond to possible emergencies that may arise from the upcoming El Niño rains.

The equipment package includes two boats, one designed for rescue operations in deep water and another for use in shallow waters, including temporarily accumulated ponds.

Regional Force Commander, Mr Elisa Mugisa, told the Daily News yesterday that the boat designed for shallow waters is a rubber boat that can be folded and easily transported like luggage.

“We are therefore able to attend any case, anywhere, at the right time,” he said. Mr Mugisa said the Force had already identified all flood-prone areas across Mwanza, with officers deployed to the areas to conduct continuous public awareness campaigns.

In the city centre, identified areas include Mkuyuni, Mabatini, Masai Bridge and Nyamongoro, among others.

He called on residents in flood-prone areas to take precautions and, where possible, relocate in advance to avoid potential loss of lives and property.

At the same time, he said the Force was working with other stakeholders, including the Red Cross, Scouts and militia, to conduct continuous preparedness exercises aimed at addressing a possible shortage of rescuers during the El Niño period.

In Misungwi District, people living along Lake Victoria have also been encouraged to relocate, as historical records show that the area has previously been seriously affected by heavy rains.

District Commissioner (DC),  Ms Johari Samizi, said records from 2021 show that heavy rains caused the water table to rise, with Lake Victoria extending beyond its normal boundaries and affecting surrounding communities.

“At least 10 wards of Misungwi are located along the lake,” she said.

She added: “Residents have been advised to relocate because the upcoming rains are predicted to be heavier.”

Ms Samizi said disaster committees from the village level had been involved in conducting regular public awareness campaigns on possible heavy rains and their impact on people and property.

At the same time, she said all health facilities were stocking adequate supplies of medicines, not only for possible disease outbreaks associated with El Niño but also for patients who depend on regular medication.

“These people should have drugs that will serve them for even two months, as rains might limit or cut off movement for some days. We also encourage people to ensure food security at household level,” she said.

Food security is also a priority in Kwimba District, where residents have been encouraged to make use of public food warehouses as a precaution against possible disruptions caused by El Niño.

Similarly, residents living in muddy houses whose roofs are supported by stones have been advised to relocate because heavy rains could be accompanied by strong winds.

At the same time, regular sanitation campaigns are being conducted, including the removal of human activities, particularly farming, from areas adjacent to road infrastructure.

Kwimba District Commissioner, Mr Ng’wilabuzu Ludigija said some farmers had made farming along road projects a routine practice, citing sugarcane cultivation along the newly constructed Sumve road.