The Tanzanian government has directed the Rufiji Basin Water Board to complete the construction of an embankment along the Lumemo River within seven days. This directive was issued by Minister of State in the Vice-President's Office, Eng Hamad Yussuf Masauni, during a visit to Kilombero District in Morogoro Region. The minister's visit aimed to inspect measures being taken to protect communities from expected heavy rains associated with El Nino.
Minister Masauni emphasized the importance of prioritizing human life over the costs of constructing the embankment. He warned that the forecasted heavy rains could worsen flooding and threaten residents in Ipangalala Ward, Kilombero District. The minister urged residents to participate in environmental conservation by planting trees and avoiding indiscriminate waste dumping. He also warned that blocked drains can cause water to change course, damaging infrastructure and residents' property.
Kilombero Basin Water Officer Abisai Chilunda provided details about the embankment, stating that it stretches approximately 11 kilometres. He mentioned that priority will be given to sections damaged by recent rains, including areas requiring rock placement and soil filling. The construction of the embankment is crucial in preventing flooding and protecting residents in the area.
Minister Masauni's visit covered several vulnerable areas, including the SGR embankment section from Mkundi to Lukobe, Diwale River in Kichangani Ward, Turiani, Dumila along Kikundi River, Mkondoa-Kidete River in Kasiki Ward, and Lumemo River. The minister's assessment of these areas highlights the government's efforts to mitigate the impact of El Nino rains on communities.
NEMC Director of Compliance and Enforcement Elibariki Bajuta urged residents living in valley areas to move to safer locations and stop indiscriminate tree cutting. He also called for tighter control of plastic bags that can clog drainage channels and worsen flooding. Bajuta's remarks emphasize the need for collaborative efforts to prevent flooding and ensure residents' safety.
The government's directive to the Rufiji Basin Water Board to complete the embankment construction within seven days underscores the urgency of the situation. The expected El Nino rains pose a significant threat to communities in Kilombero District, and timely completion of the embankment is crucial in preventing flooding and protecting residents.
The Rufiji Basin Water Board is expected to work closely with local authorities and residents to complete the embankment construction within the given timeframe. The government's efforts to mitigate the impact of El Nino rains demonstrate its commitment to protecting human life and property in vulnerable areas.
Key points
- The Tanzanian government has given the Rufiji Basin Water Board seven days to complete the construction of an embankment along the Lumemo River.
- The embankment construction aims to prevent flooding and protect residents in Ipangalala Ward, Kilombero District, from expected heavy rains associated with El Nino.
- The government has also urged residents to participate in environmental conservation and take precautions to prevent flooding.
