GMet warning calls for urgent action

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) last week issued a critical warning about prolonged dry spells expected to affect many parts of the country at the beginning and end of this year's rainy season.

This forecast signals a potential severe drought that could disrupt agriculture, increase bushfire risks and threaten water availability nationwide.

This announcement comes as no surprise. Similar conditions occured at the beginning of the farming season last year, devastating many farmers and prompting the ECOWAS Regional Food Security Reserve to donate 500 tonnes of cereals to the hardest-hit regions.

These dry spells are becoming an annual phenomenon, and the Daily Graphic believes that developing strategic solutions now is essential for protecting the country’s food security.

The GMet's forecast of a dry spell that would last between eight and 13 days during the peak farming season is deeply worrying. With the farming season already beginning in the southern sector, this timely warning should guide farmers to avoid repeating the mistakes of 2024.

While we commend GMet for this early warning, we expect agricultural authorities, the National Fire Service, district assemblies and farming communities to take decisive action and collaborate closely to prevent disastrous consequences.

We are encouraged that GMet has gone beyond merely announcing the impending drought.

It has offered practical solutions, advising farmers to adopt drought-resistant crop varieties, implement irrigation strategies, and consult agricultural extension officers for guidance.

The agency has also urged authorities to enhance public education on fire safety measures and to monitor and control the illegal burning of farmlands.

GMet's expanded awareness campaign is particularly commendable.

Moving beyond traditional media, it is now reaching markets, streets, bus terminals and local communities.

The distribution of infographics to the public and education on seasonal forecasts and climate conditions represent significant progress in public awareness.

Its planned engagement with key institutions—including the Ga Traditional Council, Parliament and climate-focused groups—to present forecasts and provide climate updates demonstrates a comprehensive approach to information sharing.

The "Dawuro Campaign," which translates seasonal forecasts into local languages and distributes them through television, radio, and animation videos, is especially valuable.

These initiatives will reach not only educated elites but all potential stakeholders affected by changing weather patterns, particularly farmers and traders.

The irregular rainfall patterns and the increasing dry spells we are experiencing are direct consequences of climate change.

This is the reality, and farmers must be educated about these changes to make informed decisions.

The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), through its agents and in collaboration with GMet, must provide farmers with the information needed to adapt to these new conditions.

As GMet has advised, we expect MoFA to work closely with the CSIR-Food Research Institute to develop drought-resistant crop varieties with shorter maturation periods.

The impact of climate change is undeniable and permanent.

The sooner we accept this reality as a nation and adopt adaptive measures, the better our prospects will be.

The government's appointment of a dedicated Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability demonstrates its recognition of the importance of climate change and its commitment to addressing these urgent challenges.

However, combating climate change requires collective action—no individual can tackle it alone.

We must all join this effort, with the newly appointed minister providing policy direction.

GMet has proven itself to be an invaluable institution, and we must provide all the resources it needs to function effectively.

The adage that to be forewarned is to be forearmed holds here.

GMet has issued its warning; now relevant authorities must intensify their efforts, with support from all citizens, to prevent emergencies.

Together, the challenge of climate change is surmountable. But we must act now, with purpose and coordination.