Dar es Salaam. The National Environment Management Council (NEMC) has issued a warning about the potential dangers posed by heavy rains expected in several regions of Tanzania.
Addressing the press on February 2, 2025, NEMC Director General Dr Immaculate Semesi emphasized the urgency of preparedness to minimize the risks associated with extreme weather events.
“In recent years, climate change has intensified the frequency and severity of natural disasters,” she said. “Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, heavy floods, and landslides have affected various parts of the country.”
Several regions, including Katesh in Hanang District, Kawetere in Mbeya, and Mamba Miamba in Same District, have experienced devastating landslides, leading to loss of property and disruptions in daily life.
Flooding has been particularly severe in Rufiji, Morogoro, Malinyi, Ulanga, and Kilombero, damaging homes, farmlands, and public infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and communication networks.
According to the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA), above-average rainfall is expected in eastern parts of Shinyanga, Simiyu, Mara, Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Manyara regions. Meanwhile, Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Pwani, Morogoro, Kigoma, Kagera, Geita, Mwanza, and parts of Shinyanga are likely to receive moderate to below-average rainfall.
“These conditions raise concerns about potential disasters, including flash floods, landslides, and waterborne disease outbreaks,” Semesi warned.
NEMC is calling on local government authorities, particularly in Dar es Salaam, to take proactive measures in maintaining drainage systems and ensuring proper waste management.
“Poor waste disposal in drainage channels has been a major contributor to urban flooding, exacerbating the impact of heavy rains,” she noted.
Residents are urged to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions. “Those living near rivers, coastal areas, or steep slopes should be particularly vigilant,” she said.
The authorities are also closely monitoring mining and quarrying activities to ensure safety in high-risk areas. Travelers are advised to exercise caution as roads and other transport infrastructure may be affected by adverse weather conditions.
Environmental laws must be strictly followed to prevent disasters. “The 2004 Environmental Management Act prohibits construction in vulnerable areas such as riverbanks, wetlands, and flood-prone zones,” she stressed.
Local governments have been instructed to enforce these regulations to protect both people and the environment.
Past disasters have shown the devastating effects of floods and landslides on communities. “Learning from these experiences, we stress the importance of preparedness and community cooperation,” she said. “Ensuring a clean and safe environment is a shared responsibility, and adherence to guidelines can help mitigate the impact of extreme weather conditions.”
With heavy rains on the horizon, early action is crucial. “Authorities, communities, and individuals must work together to safeguard lives and property. Tanzania’s future resilience to climate challenges depends on proactive measures taken today,” Semesi concluded.