By Adonis Byemelwa
In the picturesque yet disaster-prone region of Kagera, northwestern Tanzania, the urgency for enhanced disaster preparedness and management is at an all-time high. The region, with Bukoba as its capital, faces severe challenges from the increasing frequency of natural disasters, notably devastating floods. These floods, exacerbated by climate change and the overflowing tributaries feeding into Lake Victoria, threaten lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure.
Amidst this crisis, the call for proactive disaster management has never been more critical. Enter Pius Ngeze, an 80-year-old former CCM Chairman for Kagera and ex-legislator for Ngara, who has been a steadfast resident of Bukoba since 1977.
Renowned for penning 72 agricultural books and steering Tanzania Educational Publishers (TEP), Ngeze’s relentless advocacy echoes through Bukoba. With unmatched expertise and community ties, he stands as a pivotal voice for fortified disaster readiness and scientific inquiry, shielding Bukoba’s destiny.
On May 17th, 2024, in a heartfelt recount, he revealed the staggering extent of the devastation wrought by the recent floods, which inflicted catastrophic damage to his residence and TEP house.
The torrential waters left a trail of destruction, with losses soaring to over 100 million Tanzanian shillings. The floods, unprecedented in their ferocity, have upended lives and livelihoods, underlining the urgent need for enhanced disaster preparedness and support for affected communities.
“My residence was wrecked by floods, and I incurred a huge loss. The TEP house was damaged despite having a three-meter foundation. All offices were affected, and the books were damaged,” Ngeze lamented.
He emphasized the increasing frequency and severity of these events, linking them to broader climatic changes. “The lake has some challenges. If you ask people, they will tell you these are climate change effects. What we did not experience before is now seen.”
Ngeze’s concerns are echoed by local experts and government officials. Dr. Egidius Kamanyi, a researcher and sociology lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam, has called for scientific research to understand the root causes of the floods and find lasting solutions. “Conducting scientific research would enable the government and other partners to find a lasting solution to the problem,” Kamanyi explained.
The Kagera region, including Bukoba Municipal Council, typically experiences long rains from February to March. However, due to climate change, floods have become more unpredictable and severe. The floods on June 24, 2023, caused significant damage, leaving many homeless and destroying infrastructure.
The former Kagera Regional Administrative Secretary (RAS), Mr. Toba Nguvila, directed the Bukoba District Disaster Management Committee to assess the impact of the floods. He has also urged residents to maintain clear drainage systems and avoid throwing garbage into them.
Reflecting on past warnings, Ngeze recounted a conversation with Simon Karatama in 2014. “Karatama told me, ‘Do you have a plot to set up a house in Kitendaguru?’ I said no.
He warned that the area where I stay was full of water in the past, and the same may happen again,” Ngeze recalled. His concerns became a reality when floods in 2016 and subsequent seismic activities further highlighted the vulnerability of the region.
Bukoba has also witnessed other natural calamities, including typhoons and earthquakes. Ngeze pointed out the need for a comprehensive disaster management strategy, citing the examples of Japan and the Netherlands, where advanced technologies and proactive measures have been implemented to mitigate similar risks. “The government needs a disaster management unit and a commission led by Prof. Abdul Mruma to take decisive action. We must do more to save lives,” Ngeze urged.
The tributaries filling up Lake Victoria, including the Kanoni River, play a crucial role in the region’s hydrology. However, without thorough scientific studies and proper management, these water bodies contribute to flooding risks. The government is called upon to conduct detailed studies to understand the tributaries’ behaviors and implement measures to control their impact on Lake Victoria.
Despite the challenges, steps are being taken towards improved disaster management in Tanzania. Former Assistant Director of Disaster Research in the Prime Minister’s Office, Department of Disaster Management, Mr. Charles Msangi, highlighted the country’s progress due to the Disaster Management Act of 2022. This act has strengthened early warning systems, infrastructure, and guidelines for disaster response and recovery.
In the picturesque region of Kagera, situated in northwestern Tanzania, the urgency for enhanced disaster preparedness and management has never been more palpable. Kagera, with Bukoba as its regional capital, faces a unique set of challenges due to its proximity to Lake Victoria and its complex network of tributaries that feed into the lake. These waterways, while vital for the local ecosystem and economy, also pose significant risks, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall when they are prone to flooding.
One of the primary concerns for Kagera’s residents is the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters, such as floods and landslides. These events have been exacerbated by climate change, which has led to more erratic weather patterns.
The flooding of tributaries, in particular, has become a recurring issue, often resulting in the overflow of Lake Victoria. This not only threatens agricultural lands and infrastructure but also endangers lives and livelihoods.
In the face of these challenges, disaster preparedness and management in Kagera must be prioritized. A multi-faceted approach is essential, integrating both traditional knowledge and modern scientific research.
Ngeze, echoing the sentiments of many concerned citizens, emphasizes the importance of proactive measures. These include the construction of robust infrastructure, such as flood barriers and drainage systems, as well as the implementation of early warning systems to alert communities of impending disasters.
Scientific research plays a fundamental role in understanding and mitigating the impacts of natural disasters in the region. Hydrologists and climatologists, for example, are crucial in studying the patterns of tributary flows and predicting potential flooding events.
By leveraging data and predictive models, these experts can provide invaluable insights into the most vulnerable areas and the most effective mitigation strategies. Additionally, environmental scientists can offer guidance on sustainable land use practices that reduce the risk of landslides and soil erosion, further protecting communities.
Disaster management in Kagera must also involve comprehensive community education and training programs. These programs should aim to raise awareness about the risks associated with natural disasters and equip residents with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively. Community drills, workshops, and the dissemination of informational materials can empower individuals to take preventive actions and reduce their vulnerability.
The role of experts extends beyond research and infrastructure. Their involvement in policy-making and the implementation of disaster management plans is critical. Collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities can ensure a coordinated and effective response to disasters. Experts can also advocate for policies that prioritize disaster risk reduction and allocate necessary resources for preparedness and recovery efforts.
In addition to local efforts, international cooperation is essential. Climate change is a global issue, and its impacts on regions like Kagera require support from the international community. Funding for research, infrastructure projects, and capacity-building initiatives can greatly enhance the region’s resilience to natural disasters.
Ultimately, the safety and well-being of Kagera’s residents hinge on the collective efforts of all stakeholders. Proactive disaster management not only saves lives but also preserves the socio-economic fabric of the region. It is a call to action that cannot be ignored, as the stakes are too high for complacency.
The resilience of Bukoba and its surrounding areas will depend on the commitment to robust disaster preparedness and the integration of scientific expertise into all aspects of planning and response. The time to act is now, and the need for comprehensive, forward-thinking strategies has never been more critical.
