09 Apr 2024

The current rains that have been experienced in most parts of the country have come to an end, says Department of Meteorological Services, Meteorologist Mr Samuel Ramotonto.

Mr Ramotonto informed BOPA on Tuesday that temperatures across the country would continue to be mild and warm with instances of cold weather in the Southern region of the country for most of the times.

With the winter season approaching, he said the outlook was not ready as yet, but noted that the winter forecast would be released in due time.

He advised Batswana to continue taking care as the weather pattern changes saying that was essential for maintaining good health and wellbeing.

Mr Ramantoto further urged Batswana to keep an eye on updates and pay attention to any warnings or advisories issued by meteorological services.

Meanwhile, Water Utilities Corporation, Public Relations and Events Management coordinator, Ms Fiona Motswaledi said dams across the country were at different levels.

Marvin Motlhabane on the other hand reports that SeedCo Sales and Agronomy Manager, Mr Dialwa Kenatshele states that late rains toward winter season were good for soil moisture retention which was ideal for sustaining crops much longer.

Mr Kenatshele advised in an interview Tuesday, that farmers could utilize the precious moisture for winter wheat production, citing that wheat varieties in the market currently were SC Nduna,

SC Serena and SC Select which were stable for Botswana condition and had good tillering, standability and possessed good milling and baking qualities.

He said the above wheat varieties had been grown in Pandamatenga and Tuliblock area in rain fed and irrigation conditions and had shown good adaptability and performance.

“Due to the past challenging drought-stricken summer season, this late rain comes as a relief and chance to do winter wheat production as a build up toward food availability in Botswana.

We, therefore, highly encourage farmers to do winter wheat production and make them aware that wheat is also one of the crops offered under Temo-Letlotlo programme,” said Mr Kenatshele.

Furthermore, he urged farmers to utilize advanced weather forecasting systems and tools, to monitor weather patterns and predict late rain events, adding that the information would allow them to adjust planting schedules, implement protective measures, or even select more resilient crop varieties. 

To minimise runoffs in the farm and prevent waterlogging, he said ripping technique was encouraged to improve infiltration, mentioning that crops would not be submerged in water after heavy rains, as most of the water will be absorbed into the soil.

Mr Kenatshele said on some vegetable crops, it was ideal to do raised bed to improve drainage, limit weeds, retain soil moisture and prevent soil compaction.

Moreover, he said when beds are raised, crops do not easily get submerged in water, hence minimal chance of water logging.

“Implement proper storage practices to protect harvested crops from moisture infiltration during late rain events. Ensure storage facilities are well-ventilated, insulated, and equipped with moisture-proof materials to prevent spoilage and maintain crop quality,” Mr Kenatshele advised. ENDS