The Kongola Constituency is assessing and preparing to respond to emerging flood challenges along the Kwando River.

This follows reports of rising water levels that have already affected agricultural activities in Singalamwe.

Kongola Councillor Bennety Busihu warned that rising waters of the Kwando River could affect more communities.

Busihu says the constituency will engage with stakeholders to keep communities informed and strengthen precautionary measures.

"We have to consistently inform time and again, particularly those who have gardens along the river, about mitigation measures and how they can protect their livelihoods."

Busihu said a local disaster risk and management committee will be established to assess the situation and report to the structures.

"Especially maybe if he has lost a lot of seedlings, maybe there could be another plan that could help procure some seedlings so that a farmer also does another alternative upper land so that he should have to grow the same crop."

Vegetable producer Nawa Simone says the impact of the floodwaters is already being felt.

The water entered his farm during the first week of August and damaged most of his goods.

At present he lost goods valued at N$150,000, including labour and other inputs.

Simone has been farming in the area for the past five years.
On the other hand, they also need water during other seasons.

"I am looking forward to the ministry of agriculture, water and forestry to supply me with a borehole since im a serious farmer, I would like to continue with my farming plan at the upper lands, because when we farm its not for household consumption, its more for food security as far as our country is concerned."

Floodwaters could affect communities in Singalamwe, Judea Lyaboloma Constituency and the Linyanti area.

Livestock farmers could equally face challenges accessing gazing areas, while crocodiles also remain a concern along the river channels.
Communities along the Kwando, Mashi and Linyanti rivers are urged to be on alert.