eThekwini urges residents to grow food as El Niño raises concerns

eThekwini Municipality has encouraged residents to start growing their own food as it warns that El Niño could lead to food shortages and higher prices.

It also raised concerns about the impact on low-income households, which may struggle to afford food if prices increase.

How El Niño could affect households

El Niño occurs when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean become unusually warm, influencing weather patterns in different parts of the world.

El Niño often increases the chances of hot, dry summers in South Africa.

A lack of rainfall can damage crops and reduce harvests, leaving farmers with less produce to sell.

Municipality encourages food gardens

To help families prepare, eThekwini Municipality has encouraged residents to start food gardens at home and in their communities.

The municipality advised residents to:

• Establish household and community food gardens.
• Grow drought-resistant vegetables and crops.
• Preserve surplus food when available.
• Support local food production initiatives.
• Explore different sources of household income where possible.
• Share knowledge about climate-smart farming practices.
• Strengthen community support for vulnerable households.

Why choosing the right crops matters

The municipality has encouraged households to choose crops that can cope with drier conditions.

Some vegetables need more water than others, and prolonged dry weather can make it difficult to maintain a garden.

Choosing suitable crops and conserving soil moisture can help residents use water more efficiently.

eThekwini has also called on residents to support local farmers and food production projects.

The municipality believes stronger community networks can help vulnerable households cope with food insecurity.