GEOGRAPHY

ASSIGNMENT
THE IMPACT OF
DROUGHTS IN SOUTH
AFRICA
 TABLE OF CONTENT
TOPIC PAGES
Mapping

1. A map of South Africa, that indicates the drought-stricken areas. 2–3

2. Annual rainfall graphs of the past five years 4
3. A brief discussion on the annual rainfall graphs 4
4. Pictures of the different types of droughts 5-6

Introduction

1. Discussion on different types of droughts 7

2. Types of droughts 7
3. Impact of drought on the country 7

Paragraph 1

1. How can droughts be triggered by Physical (natural) conditions. 8

2. How can droughts be triggered by Human activities 8
Paragraph 2

1. Outline the negative impact of droughts on the economy of South Africa 8

2. Outline the negative impact of droughts on the farmers of South Africa 8-9

Paragraph 3

1. Discuss drought prevention and drought preparation strategies. 10

Paragraph 4

1. What is the relationship between climate change and the regularity of 11

droughts.

Conclusion

1. What is the way forward regarding droughts for the government and the 12
people of South Africa.

Bibliography 12
MAPPING

SOUTH AFRICA MAP

ANNUAL RAINFALL GRAPHS OF THE PAST FIVE YEARS IN SOUTH AFRICA

A BRIEF DISCUSSION ON THE ANNUAL RAINFALL GRAPHS

The numbers you’ve provided represent the annual rainfall totals in millimetres (mm) for South Africa
from 2017 to 2021. Here’s a brief analysis of the data:

 2017: The annual rainfall for the year was 431.76 mm. This would serve as our base year for
comparison.
 2018: The annual rainfall slightly decreased to 389.73 mm. This would indicate a drier year
compared to 2017, with a decrease of about 9.7%.
 2019: The annual rainfall was 390.05 mm, virtually the same as in 2018, indicating another
year with relatively low rainfall.
 2020: The annual rainfall increased to 468.19 mm. This is an increase of approximately 20%
from the previous year, indicating a wetter year compared to 2018 and 2019.
 2021: The annual rainfall increased further to 526.6 mm. This is the highest rainfall total in
the five-year period, and it’s about 12.4% higher than 2020’s total.

This shows a trend of increasing annual rainfall in South Africa from 2018 to 2021. Such trends
could be influenced by various factors, including changes in global climate patterns, local weather
phenomena, or even shifts in oceanic currents and temperatures. However, to fully understand the
reasons behind these changes, a more detailed climatological study would be needed.
PICTURES OF THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF DROUGHTS

AGRICULTURAL

METEOROLOGICAL
HYDROLOGICAL

SOCIO-ECONOMIC DROUGHT
INTRODUCTION

DISCUSSION ON DIFFERENT TYPES OF DROUGHTS

A drought is a period when an area or region experiences below-normal precipitation. The lack of
adequate precipitation, either rain or snow, can cause reduced soil moisture or groundwater,
diminished stream flow, crop damage, and a general water shortage.

TYPES OF DROUGHTS

 Meteorological Drought is based on the degree of dryness or rainfall deficit and the length of
the dry period.
  Hydrological Drought is based on the impact of rainfall deficits on the water supply such as
stream flow, reservoir and lake levels, and ground water table decline.
 Agricultural Drought refers to the impacts on agriculture by factors such as rainfall deficits,
soil water deficits, reduced ground water, or reservoir levels needed for irrigation.
 Socioeconomic Drought considers the impact of drought conditions (meteorological,
agricultural, or hydrological drought) on supply and demand of some economic goods such as
fruits, vegetables, grains, and meat. Socioeconomic drought occurs when the demand for an
economic good exceeds supply because of a weather-related deficit in water supply..

Impact of Drought on the Country

Droughts have a severe impact on South Africa’s economy, environment, and society. The agricultural
sector, which is a significant contributor to the country’s economy, is the most affected by drought.
With less water available, farmers struggle to irrigate their crops, leading to lower yields, reduced
income, and increased food prices. Drought also affects the country’s energy sector, as hydropower
plants generate less electricity during periods of low water levels.

Droughts also have significant environmental impacts, including reduced river flows, lower
groundwater levels, and increased soil erosion. These environmental impacts can have long-term
effects on the country’s ecosystems, leading to desertification, soil degradation, and loss of
biodiversity.

In addition to economic and environmental impacts, droughts also have significant social impacts.
With reduced access to water, communities struggle to meet their basic needs, including drinking,
cooking, and cleaning. Women and children are often the most affected, as they are typically
responsible for fetching water. Droughts also exacerbate existing inequalities, with vulnerable
communities and marginalized groups being the most affected.

PARAGRAPH 1
How can droughts be triggered by Physical (natural) conditions.

South Africa is a region often troubled by droughts, affecting both its ecology and economy
significantly. These droughts are primarily triggered by various physical or natural conditions, which
include climate variability, changes in sea surface temperatures, topography, and land cover changes.

How can droughts be triggered by Human activities.

Droughts, prolonged periods of abnormally low rainfall leading to a shortage of water, are natural
disasters that can significantly impact the environment, economy, and society. While droughts are
typically associated with climatic fluctuations, human activities have increasingly been found to
exacerbate their frequency and severity. In regions like South Africa, a country known for its semi-
arid climate and water scarcity, the impact of human-induced drought can be profound. The
intersection of climate change, deforestation, water mismanagement, land degradation, and
urbanization, driven by human actions, can intensify drought conditions, leading to severe ecological
and socio-economic consequences.

PARAGRAPH 2
1. OUTLINE THE NEGATIVE IMPACT OF DROUGHTS ON THE ECONOMY OF SOUTH
AFRICA
South Africa, one of the leading economies in Africa, has been grappling with the harsh effects of
recurrent droughts, a situation exacerbated by climate change. The lack of sufficient rainfall
negatively impacts numerous sectors, most notably agriculture, leading to economic downturns, job
losses, and food insecurity.

impact of droughts on the South African economy:

 Impact on Agriculture and Livestock

Drought conditions lead to crop failure and decreased livestock productivity, directly affecting
the livelihoods of farmers and farm workers.

 Effects on Water-Dependent Industries

Drought conditions lead to water scarcity, which escalates operating costs in these sectors,
potentially causing slowdowns or shutdowns.

 Impacts on Tourism
Tourism is a vital part of South Africa’s economy. However, droughts, especially in scenic
areas like the Western Cape, can lead to a decrease in tourist numbers.

 Rising Food Prices and Inflation

The scarcity of agricultural products caused by droughts leads to a significant increase in
food prices. This rise contributes to inflation and reduces the purchasing power of
consumers.

 Increased Government Spending

Droughts necessitate increased government spending on relief efforts to provide water, food
aid, and financial support to affected communities and industries.

 Implications for Energy Supply

Droughts reduce water levels in reservoirs and dams, thereby affecting electricity generation.
This situation can lead to increased energy costs and load shedding, negatively impacting
businesses, and households.

 Long-Term Effects on Economic Growth

The cumulative effects of droughts include lower agricultural and industrial output,
decreased tourism revenue, higher food prices, increased government spending, and
disruptions in energy supply.

2. OUTLINE THE NEGATIVE IMPACT OF DROUGHTS ON THE FARMERS OF SOUTH

AFRICA

Outlining The Negative Impact of Droughts on South African Farmers: South Africa, a country with a
highly diverse climate and significant regional variations in rainfall, has experienced several severe
droughts in recent years. Agriculture plays a vital role in the nation’s economy, providing employment
and sustaining rural livelihoods.

Impacts of droughts on South African farmers

A. Crop failure and reduced yields

Droughts led to widespread crop failure and significantly reduced yields, affecting staple crops such
as maize and wheat, which are crucial for both domestic consumption and export markets.

B. Livestock losses
Droughts severely impact livestock, with cattle, sheep, and goats suffering from a lack of water and
forage. This results in weight loss, decreased fertility, and increased mortality rates.

C. Economic consequences
The cumulative effects of droughts result in decreased income for farmers, who face reduced yields,
livestock losses, and higher input costs.

D. Social and psychological impacts

The hardships caused by droughts can lead to migration and rural depopulation, as farmers and their
families seek better opportunities elsewhere.

PARAGRAPH 3
Discuss drought prevention and drought preparation strategies.

Droughts have become increasingly prevalent in South Africa due to climate change and variability in
rainfall patterns. These prolonged dry spells pose significant challenges to agriculture, water
availability, and overall economic stability. To mitigate the impact of droughts, it is crucial for South
Africans to adopt proactive measures for both drought prevention and drought preparation.

Drought Prevention and Drought Preparation Strategies that South Africans can Use:

Water Conservation and Efficiency

 Fix Leaks: Regularly inspect and repair leaks in faucets, toilets, and irrigation systems. Even
small leaks can lead to significant water wastage over time.

 Install Water-Saving Devices: Install water-efficient showerheads, faucets, and toilets to

minimize water usage. Consider using dual-flush toilets and aerators on taps.

 Rainwater Harvesting: Set up rainwater collection systems to capture and store rainfall for
non-potable uses such as garden irrigation, car washing, and toilet flushing.

 Greywater Recycling: Treat and reuse greywater from sinks, showers, and laundry for
irrigation purposes. Implement safe and efficient greywater recycling systems.

Sustainable Landscaping and Agriculture

 Drought-Tolerant Landscaping: Plant native or drought-resistant vegetation that requires

less water for irrigation. Use mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce evaporation.
  Efficient Irrigation Practices: Implement water-efficient irrigation techniques such as drip
irrigation or micro-sprinklers that target the root zone of plants and minimize evaporation.

 Soil Conservation and Management: Practice soil conservation methods such as contour
plowing, terracing, and cover cropping to enhance water retention in the soil and reduce
erosion.

 Crop Rotation and Diversification: Adopt crop rotation practices to improve soil health and
water-use efficiency. Explore drought-tolerant crop varieties and consider diversifying
agricultural practices to reduce dependence on water-intensive crops.

Household Water Management

 Behavioral Changes: Encourage responsible water use habits, such as shorter showers,
turning off taps when not in use, and only running dishwashers and washing machines with
full loads.

 Greywater Reuse: Reuse greywater from household activities like washing dishes and clothes
for activities that do not require potable water.

 Water-Efficient Appliances: Upgrade to water-efficient appliances, such as washing

machines and dishwashers with high Water Efficiency Rating (WER).

Community Engagement and Education

 Public Awareness Campaigns: Conduct awareness campaigns to educate the public about
the importance of water conservation, the impact of droughts, and practical water-saving tips.

 Community Gardens: Promote community gardens and urban farming initiatives that
encourage sustainable water use and showcase drought-resistant gardening techniques.

 Water Committees: Establish community-based water committees to monitor and manage

water resources efficiently, promoting equitable water distribution and usage.

 School Programs: Integrate water conservation education into school curricula, fostering a
culture of water consciousness among students and future generations.

PARAGRAPH 4
What is the relationship between climate change and the regularity of droughts.

The relationship between climate change and the increased regularity of droughts in South Africa:

Temperature Increase: As global temperatures rise, evaporation rates increase, causing soil to dry out
more quickly. This can lead to reduced water availability and an increase in the frequency and
intensity of droughts.

Changes in Rainfall Patterns: Climate change can cause shifts in rainfall patterns, with some regions
experiencing more prolonged dry periods. In South Africa, models predict a decrease in annual rainfall
in the western and central parts of the country, increasing the likelihood of droughts.

Ocean-Atmosphere Interactions: Climate change can influence ocean-atmosphere interactions, such

as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), which have been
linked to droughts in South Africa.

The regularity of droughts in South Africa has been increasing in recent years, with climate change
playing a significant role. Increased temperatures, shifts in rainfall patterns, and ocean-atmosphere
interactions have all contributed to this trend. The impacts of droughts on agriculture, water scarcity,
ecosystems, and the economy are significant. To address this challenge, a combination of adaptation
and mitigation strategies is necessary, including improved water management, drought-resistant
crops, early warning systems, reducing GHG emissions, and effective policies and governance. Only
by taking action on multiple fronts can we address the impacts of climate change and protect our
planet’s resources for future generations.

CONCLUSION
What is the way forward regarding droughts for the government and the people of South Africa?

South Africa is no stranger to droughts, with a history of prolonged dry spells and water shortages
that have affected the country for years. With climate change exacerbating the situation, it is
becoming increasingly clear that the government and the people of South Africa need to come together
to find a way forward. In this article, we will examine the current state of drought in South Africa, the
impact of drought on the country’s economy, environment, and society, and what the government and
people can do to mitigate and adapt to the drought crisis.

THE WAYS THAT THE GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE CAN MITIGATE AND ADAPT TO THE
DROUGHT CRISIS.

1. Water Conservation
Water conservation is essential in mitigating the effects of drought. The government can promote
water conservation by enforcing regulations that limit water usage, promoting the use of water-
efficient appliances, and implementing programs that incentivize businesses and households to
conserve water. People can conserve water by fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, and
limiting outdoor water usage.

2. Water Infrastructure
Investing in water infrastructure can help alleviate the impact of drought. The government can invest
in water storage facilities, including dams, reservoirs, and groundwater recharge systems. People can
also invest in rainwater harvesting systems, which can help them collect and store water for future
use.

3. Agricultural Adaptation
Given the significant impact of drought on the agricultural sector, it is essential to adapt farming
practices to mitigate the impact of drought. The government can promote the use of drought-resistant
crops, provide farmers with irrigation systems, and invest in research and development to improve
crop yields. People can also adopt sustainable farming practices that conserve water, such as crop
rotation and mulching.

4. Disaster Preparedness
Preparing for droughts and other natural disasters is crucial in mitigating their impact. The
government can develop early warning systems, create emergency response plans, and provide relief
to affected communities. People can also prepare for droughts by storing emergency supplies of food
and water, developing drought-resistant gardens, and learning about water-efficient practices.

5. Education and Awareness

Education and awareness campaigns are critical in promoting a culture of water conservation and
sustainability. The government can invest in educational programs that teach people about the
importance of water conservation, sustainable farming practices, and disaster preparedness. People
can also educate themselves and their communities about water conservation and sustainability and
spread the word about the importance of these practices.

BIBLIOGRAPHY
https://www.grainsa.co.za/thousands-benefit-from-drought-relief-fund

https://www.dffe.gov.za/otherdocuments/reports/southafricas_secondnational_climatechange

https://mg.co.za/environment/2021-12-21-international-community-seeks-to-better-tap-into-
groundwater-in-2022/