20/06/2026
African countries have been urged to start preparing now for a possible El Niño weather phenomenon that could affect the 2026/2027 farming season, with warnings that delaying action could put food security and livelihoods at risk.
Speaking at the launch of the Regional El Niño Preparedness Initiative in Lusaka, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Prof. Lackson Kasonka, said early planning is the best defence against droughts, floods and other extreme weather events.
Drawing lessons from Zambia's recent drought, Mr. Kangwa said acting before disaster strikes is more effective and far less costly than responding after communities have already been affected. He stressed that reliable weather forecasts and early warning systems can help farmers, governments and communities prepare in advance.
Climate experts at the meeting also called for greater investment in climate-smart agriculture, disaster preparedness and stronger cooperation among African countries to reduce the impact of future climate shocks.
With millions of Africans depending on agriculture for their livelihoods, the message was clear: preparing early today could help protect lives, harvests and economies tomorrow.
