FROST DESTROYS FOOD GARDENS IN ENGA

CAPTION: Food gardens that have been hit hard by frost in the Surinki local level government area of Lagaip District.

By MORTIMER YANGHARRY

SIRUNKI government station located along the electoral border of Wabag and Lagaip Districts is experiencing heavy frost consistent with current El Niño conditions affecting the country.

Provincial Disaster Officer Mr Ignas Nembo confirmed that widespread crop damage was observed across food gardens in the area.

“The frost resulted in prolonged low temperatures and ice formation on foliage,” Mr Nembo said.

Based on field observations, he reported extensive leaf burn, wilting, and blackening on potato leaves while plants were drooping with foliage, showing severe frost damage.

He reported that sweet potato vines were blackened, dried, and collapsed across mounds, resulting in total loss of vegetative growth observed.

Mr Nembo mentioned that rows of leafy vegetables and greens show collapsed, darkened, and burnt foliage while minor damages were noted in some cabbage heads.

He warned that if this situation persists, food security and the general livelihood of the people will be greatly affected with total loss of current standing crops in affected gardens, impacting immediate food availability.

Additionally, he is worried the loss of vines/seedlings for the next planting season will be greatly affected due to vine and tuber damage resulting in the disruption of the supply of potatos, fresh vegetables and sweet potato as the Surinki local level government area is known for its fertile soil and high yield of these food crops.

He said the impact of frost in the Surinki LLG of Lagaip District has resulted in reduction of access to staple foods for households and loss of income from sale of potatoes, kaukau, and vegetables to local markets.

He is appealing to the National Disaster Center for further assessment and technical support to maintain food security in the area.