Nakasongola residents ask for customised weather monitoring system

Nakasongola has always been ravaged by drought

Nakasongola district leaders are demanding for a customised early weather warning system that has information in the local language.

The call was made by Dr Gerald Kittaka, the production officer for Nakasongola district during data collection exercise for farmers and managers to guide decision making in support of sustainable agricultural production in the district.

The exercise to generate data is being conducted by Africa Innovations and Vital Signs in districts of Nakasongola and Luwero.

Kittaka said the nearest warning systems in Namulonge is general and may not give actual information for particular areas like theirs.

"With the early warning system in place, farmers will be assisted to prepare early in terms of food, pastures and water for animals," said Kitata.

Kittaka noted that drought has become a recurring hazard in Nakasongola coupled with pests and diseases, which affect crops and animals leading to economic and material loss to the district.

"It is so critical for us to have early warning systems with this frequent recurrence of drought," Kittaka said.

Nakasongola is among districts that have recorded the highest crop failures associated with poor rain patterns and pests such as the fall army worm, according to Kittaka.

Norbert Nkuggwa, the deputy chief administrative officer, said climate change has gravely affected the district. "We need support in this area, animals are dying and crops are failing," Nkuggwa noted.

Jenifer Moris, the president of Conservation International said they want to understand the challenges of climate change and how other factors related to soil and health are impacting community livelihood.

"We are trying to get needed data services, where are the data gaps, what kind of tools can we bring to help farmers in better decision making," Moris said. 

The project is being funded by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation through Conservation International and Vital Signs project that integrates measurements for agriculture, ecosystem services and human wellbeing.