By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has urged the agriculture sector to prepare for the potential impacts of a strengthening El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on the province.
Winde was speaking during an engagement session at the Agri Western Cape Hall at Nampo Cape in Bredasdorp.
ENSO is a global climate cycle driven by changes in ocean temperatures in the Pacific Ocean. While the phenomenon originates thousands of kilometres away, associated changes can influence weather patterns around the world.
According to the Western Cape government, ENSO is currently in an El Niño state and is expected to strengthen over the coming months.
Winde said farmers should act now to protect crops, livestock, farmworkers and rural communities.
“I bring one message, and that is [that we have to be prepared] for what is coming our way,” Winde warned.
Winde pointed to Europe’s recent experience to illustrate the severe human and agricultural consequences of extreme heat.
“We have seen more than 30 000 excess deaths in Europe, let alone the massive negative impact on agriculture because of droughts, low-flowing rivers and extreme heat. We must learn the lessons and make sure we are prepared,” Winde explained.
Turning to conditions closer to home, he warned that the developing El Niño weather pattern could increase the Western Cape’s exposure to extreme heat, wildfire being imperilled and pressure on water resources.
The provincial government said in August that El Niño was expected to strengthen over the following months. Although its most direct effects in South Africa are generally experienced in summer rainfall regions, it could still increase temperatures, fire danger and water pressure in the Western Cape.
Dr Ivan Meyer, Western Cape MEC of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, reiterated the Premier’s call to action.
“Our farmers have already demonstrated their ability to adapt to difficult climate conditions, including the severe 2014–2016 drought period. The current response should therefore recognise the seriousness of reduced rainfall, higher temperatures and pressure on water resources.”
In partnership with stakeholders, the department will be implementing the following interventions to reduce the impact of ENSO on agricultural production, food security and the economy of the Western Cape:
- Strengthening conservation agriculture practices.
- Improving water-use efficiency in irrigated areas.
- Prioritising support for dryland production areas.
- Strengthening risk management and preparedness systems.
- Providing support to agri workers.
The province has already experienced the devastating effects of severe fires, with more than 200 000 hectares of land affected by wildfires during the previous fire season.