PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa has urged farmers to opt for drought-resistant and fast-maturing crop seeds as well as to preserve food as the country anticipates shortage of rainfall in the coming three months.

Majaliwa made the call yesterday here during commemoration of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, saying that the situation may lead to insufficient harvests.

He said as per the climate outlook issued by the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) for the Vuli season which normally begins in October to December, there will be below-normal to normal rainfall which will be characterised by a late onset, poor distribution and prolonged dry spells.

“To overcome the challenge, the government has put strategies in place which include promoting the use of fast-maturing seeds and preserving food for both humans and livestock,” he said.

The Prime Minister also called for the strengthening of knowledge dissemination on agricultural techniques that require minimal water usage.

He urged public institutions, including education and health offices as well as the private sector, to expand and establish systems for collecting and storing rainwater.

“We must enhance strategies to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases that may arise due to lack of clean and safe water, particularly during the upcoming Vuli season,” he said.

He encouraged relevant institutions to collaborate with educational establishments to provide training and work with development organisations on how to cope with drought as recommended by TMA.

“The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology should continue to strengthen the curricula to include topics related to safety in schools, disaster risk reduction and disaster awareness. It is also essential that teachers receive regular training to effectively teach the issues to pupils,” he said.

The Premier called for a united effort to empower youth on disaster-related issues, including climate change, to foster a safe and resilient society where everyone can contribute to reducing the impact of disasters.

October 13 marks the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, established by United Nations General Assembly Resolution No. 64/200 on December 21, 2009. Each year, the day is commemorated to promote a culture of disaster management globally, aiming to prevent and reduce disaster risks, as well as prepare to respond to and recover from disasters.