Building resilience: Mitigating future floods in Tanzania

By Frank Abel

Tanzania, traditionally considered less susceptible to floods, recently experienced a catastrophic event in the Katesh district of the Manyara region. The toll was staggering, with lives lost, injuries sustained, communities displaced, and homes and farmland destroyed. As the spectre of climate change looms ever larger, it is imperative for Tanzania to adopt proactive measures to mitigate the impact of such disasters in the future.

Early warning systems

The establishment of robust early warning systems stands out as a fundamental pillar in the quest for resilience. By investing in modern weather monitoring technologies, river gauges, and a sophisticated communication infrastructure, Tanzania can significantly enhance its ability to predict and respond to potential flood events. Timely alerts provide a crucial window for the evacuation of vulnerable areas, ultimately reducing the risk to human lives. The proper use of forecasted whether data from Tanzania Meteorological Agency (TMA) is very crucial at this moment than ever.

Infrastructure development

The foundation of resilient infrastructure is critical in the battle against floods. Constructing and maintaining well-designed drainage systems, river embankments, and flood barriers can effectively manage excess water during heavy rainfall. Infrastructure planning should also encompass climate-resilient housing and sustainable urban development practices that minimize vulnerability to floods.

Afforestation and watershed management

Promoting afforestation and effective watershed management emerges as a potent strategy in flood prevention. Trees and vegetation serve as natural barriers, absorbing excess rainwater and stabilizing soil. Furthermore, the maintenance of healthy watersheds contributes to the natural regulation of water flow, mitigating the risk of flash floods.

Moreover, economic opportunities abound in afforestation and watershed management, particularly with the innovative approach of leveraging Carbon Revenue. A noteworthy illustration of this strategy is evident in recent accomplishments at the Yaeda-Eyasi Landscape Project and Makame Savannah project. An exemplary instance involves the reception of a substantial cheque, amounting to 4.7 billion Tanzanian shillings. This considerable revenue was garnered through the effective protection of community-owned, endangered forests over the past year

Community education and awareness

Empowering communities with knowledge about climate change, flood risks, and appropriate response strategies is indispensable. Education campaigns should disseminate information on early warning signs, evacuation procedures, and sustainable farming practices. Fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience at the community level engenders a collective response to climate-related challenges.

Climate-resilient agriculture practices

Given the profound impact on farmland, the promotion of climate-resilient agriculture practices is paramount. This involves encouraging the cultivation of drought-resistant crops, implementing effective water management techniques, and adopting sustainable farming methods. Diversifying agricultural practices can help communities withstand the unpredictable weather patterns associated with climate change.

Government policies and regulation

Formulating and enforcing policies that address climate change adaptation and mitigation is critical. Governments should prioritize sustainable land use planning, enforce building codes that consider flood risks, and incentivize the adoption of eco-friendly practices. Comprehensive policies can guide long-term strategies for climate resilience.

International collaboration

Recognizing that climate change transcends borders, fostering collaboration with international organizations, neighbouring countries, and global climate initiatives is essential. Shared knowledge, resources, and technology can contribute to a more effective response to climate challenges.

Conclusion

The recent floods in the Katesh district serve as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of climate change-induced disasters. By investing in early warning systems, resilient infrastructure, afforestation, community education, climate-resilient agriculture, government policies, and international collaboration, Tanzania can build a more resilient future. The collective effort of communities, governments, and global partners is crucial in creating a sustainable and adaptive response to the evolving challenges posed by climate change. The path to resilience requires a holistic approach that integrates local, national, and international strategies, fostering a future where Tanzanians can withstand and thrive in the face of climate uncertainties.

Frank Abel is senior programme accountant at Amref Health Africa Tanzania and one of Stakeholders of sustainable development focusing more on effect of Climate Change. The views explained herein are those of author and do not necessary represent the view of Amref. He can be reached via +255 753 73 23 55