The Devastating Impact of Drought in Zambia: John Mpande's ordeal

The lack of rainfall can cause various problems for local communities, including damage to crops and a shortage of drinking water. These effects can lead to devastating economic and social disasters like famine, forced migration from drought-stricken areas, and conflict over remaining resources.

In Zambia, where agriculture forms the backbone of the economy and sustenance for many families, the impact of a severe drought is profound. The El Nino phenomenon, characterized by warmer ocean temperatures in the Pacific, has exacerbated these conditions, leading to one of the most severe droughts in recent history. The repercussions are felt across various sectors, affecting food security, water availability, and energy supplies.

The Plight of Jone Mpande

In the heart of Zambia, in the district of Namwala, lives a man named Jone Mpande. A farmer for over 25 years, Mr. Mpande has weathered many storms, but none as devastating as the El Nino drought that has swept across his homeland.

“This year’s drought has brought hardships because all our crops have dried up leaving us to only have one meal a day,” Mr. Mpande shares with a heavy heart. His livelihood, his sustenance, and the welfare of his nine children are all rooted in the soil he tills. But this year, the land has betrayed him.

Agricultural Devastation

The drought has been merciless, leaving no aspect of life untouched. It has ravaged the agriculture sector, leaving farmers like Mr. Mpande helpless as their fields, once lush and green, now lay dry and lifeless. “In the past years we have been able to plant Maize, Beans, Sweet Potatoes and more, but this year all those crops have failed,” he laments.

Water Scarcity

The drought has depleted water resources, making it difficult for Mr. Mpande to nourish his cattle, the source of his family’s daily milk. “When the cow is not fed well I get very little milk, however if it’s well fed I collect 2.5 litres of Milk. But when there is nothing to feed it, then we have nothing to take to Pamalat,” he explains.

Energy Disruptions

The energy supplies have been disrupted, adding to the mounting challenges. “So if we don’t take milk to Pamalat then we won’t have food and even worse we can’t run to our fields because there is nothing, all our crops are dry,” he adds.

A Reflection of a Larger Crisis

Mr. Mpande’s story is not just a tale of personal hardship. It is a reflection of a nation grappling with the harsh realities of climate change. It is a call to action for organizations like World Vision Zambia, reminding us of the urgent need to address the effects of climate change and help communities adapt and survive.

Mr. Mpande story is one of the millions of Zambians affected by the drought. Their ordeal is reminder of the need to quickly act and help them sail this phase. The time to act is now, to support initiatives that mitigate climate change, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and ensure that communities like Namwala are equipped to face the challenges ahead.