Driest July in 120 Yrs Poses Serious Threat to Mauritius’ Sugar Exports

Mauritius is experiencing its driest July in over a century, raising significant concerns for its sugar production, which constitutes 10% of the island nation’s exports. The meteorological services reported that the island received just 48 millimeters (1.9 inches) of rainfall last month, approximately 36% of the long-term average for July.

This troubling lack of precipitation is detrimental to sugarcane farming, which occupies nearly one-fifth of the total land area in Mauritius.

Farmers on the island are already grappling with water rationing, and the unprecedented drought only exacerbates their challenges.

This dry spell also has wider implications, as it reflects the severe weather difficulties impacting southern Africa this year.

Numerous farmers across Angola, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique are contending with the worst drought conditions in at least 40 years, while others in parts of Cape Town have faced significant flooding, displacing thousands of residents due to its record-setting rainfall.

Typically, Mauritius experienced its highest rainfall from January to March, but the current prolonged dry conditions threaten to have a lasting impact on both sugarcane and vegetable growers ahead of the wet season.

The meteorological services have revised their rainfall forecasts through October, predicting amounts below normal for the country of 1.26 million individuals.

“The agricultural sector is already under stress,” stated Jacqueline Sauzier, general secretary of the Mauritius Chamber of Agriculture, during a phone interview.

She highlighted that current restrictions permit cane growers only 36 hours of irrigation per week, which is not sustainable for an industry that plays a crucial role in generating much-needed foreign currency.

Despite these challenges, Mauritius’ sugar industry saw revenue increase by 19% last year, reaching approximately 10.5 billion rupees ($227 million).

However, dam levels have dropped to as low as 59% as the nation approaches its typically dry summer season.

Historically, heavy rains associated with tropical storms and cyclones are expected from January onward, but the outlook remains uncertain amid these unprecedented weather patterns.

By Kamlesh Bhuckory August 16, 2024 

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Source: BNN Blomberg