NEMC orders Morogoro Region’s residents to move away from low-lying areas ahead of El Niño rains

MOROGORO: THE National Environment Management Council (NEMC) has issued three directives to residents of Morogoro Region as part of preparations for the expected El Niño rains, urging them to move away from flood-prone low-lying areas, clear drainage channels and avoid indiscriminate tree cutting while protecting water sources.

The directives were issued by NEMC Director of Compliance and Enforcement, Elibariki Bajuta, during a two-day working visit to Morogoro on September 28 and 29, 2026.

The visit was led by the Minister of State in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), Engineer Hamad Yusuf Masauni, and focused on inspecting areas at risk of flooding and assessing measures taken to mitigate the potential impact of the expected El Niño rains in the region.

Speaking to residents after the inspection, Minister Masauni said the government was continuing to implement measures aimed at ensuring that people live in safe environments and are better protected from disasters.

He also called on government institutions to involve local communities in the planning and construction of infrastructure such as drainage systems and culverts in order to prevent land-related disputes.

Bajuta further urged residents to reduce the use and improper disposal of plastic bags, which he said contribute significantly to the blockage of drainage channels and obstruct the flow of rainwater.

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The areas inspected during the visit included the construction site of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) embankment from Mkundi to Lukobe; Diwale River in Kichangani Ward, Turiani; Dumila area along Kikundi River; Mkondoa River in Kidete, Kasiki Ward; and Lumemo River in Ifakara Town Council.

The inspection involved representatives from Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC), the relevant Water Basin Board, the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA), Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS), as well as the local authorities of Morogoro Municipality, Kilosa, Mvomero and Ifakara.