By Mvelo Mthiyane Zondo in Gungwe
THE Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has warned members of the public to take
necessary precautions as it anticipates heavy rains that could cause infrastructure damages,
Ilanga has learnt.
Speaking to Ward 12 farmers at Gungwe Village under Chief Ketso Mathe last Wednesday, the
provincial chief meteorology services officer, Rodgers Munyira, said this year’s rains would be
normal to above normal characterised by a lot of thunderstorms.
Besides alerting community members, the weather expert advised responsible authorities to be
on the high alert as many people might require assistance.
“This rainy season, we anticipate normal to above rains that will be higher than what was
experienced during the previous farming season.
“As the Met Department, we would like to warn members of the public from crossing flooded
rivers, especially children who usually attempt to cross when going to school.
“School children would rather not go to school than risk their lives,” he advised.
For farmers, he said the current rains were good for early ploughing.
“In as much as I could not be an agricultural expert, I can safely say the current rains are good
for ploughing.
“Farmers can now till their fields under the guidance of Agritex, who are the custodians of
farming.
“As of what to plant, the Agritex Department will advise you accordingly,” said Munyira.
The community meeting was graced by a high-powered delegation comprising members of the
District Development Committee namely, Agritex, Department of Veterinary Services, Women’s
Affairs, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Ministry of Youths, Ministry of Health,
the GMB, SAT, Food and Agriculture Organisation, ZRP, Office of the President and Cabinet,
Rural District Councils, among other key Government departments.
District Development Coordinator, Thulani Moyo, who chairs the District Civil Protection Unit
(CPU) also warned villagers.
“We have always warned people to move from low lying areas to high places, but most of the
times we face resistance.
“However, the same people who resist are usually affected by the floods and the Government
losses a lot of resources to the same people,” warned DDC Moyo.
Villagers, who attended the meeting thanked the DDC members saying the meeting was an eye-
opener and very educative for them.
Ward 12 Councillor Linyani Okeletsi applauded the Government departments for their advice.
“We would like to thank your advice and hope villagers will take it seriously to avoid
unnecessary loss of lives and property,” said the Councillor.
