Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi has directed relevant authorities and institutions to take immediate measures to prepare for, prevent and mitigate the impacts of the El Niño rains expected to begin in October this year.

The Vice President issued the directive after receiving a government preparedness and response report following a warning issued by the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) regarding the anticipated El Niño rains. The meeting was held at the Vice President’s Office in Dar es Salaam.

He also emphasized the importance of involving security and defence agencies in the preparations to ensure adequate manpower and strengthen the government’s capacity to prevent, reduce and respond quickly to any impacts that may arise.

“A rapid campaign should be conducted, water channels and drainage systems should be cleared, and roads should be prepared,” the Vice President stressed.

He further directed that waste, mud and soil removed during the clearing of drains and trenches be disposed of immediately at designated sites instead of being left along roadsides, where they could be washed back into the drainage systems once the rains begin.

The Vice President also instructed relevant authorities to closely supervise contractors working on road construction projects and ensure that gravel and other construction materials piled up at work sites are distributed without delay. He stressed that such work should not wait until the rains begin, as it can cause inconvenience and hardship to the public.