El Niño puts communities in Markham under severe pressure

Communities in Zumara, Marafau, Ngaruchaniang and Ngaruwapum in the Markham Valley are facing severe water and food shortages as prolonged dry conditions continue.

Community leader Tony Kipu says the lack of rain is putting increasing pressure on families across the affected communities.

“The biggest problem for our people is water. Our small streams and waterholes have dried up, and families are now forced to travel to the Umi River to collect water,” Kipu said.

He said men, women, and children are making the trip to collect water for drinking, washing, and other household needs, which would take up to thirty minutes before reaching the Umi River.

Kipu said the dry conditions are also affecting food gardens.

“Our gardens are suffering because there has been no enough rain. It is becoming difficult for people to plant and grow food,” he said.

Large areas of land across the communities have dried out and turned brown, while grass and crops are also showing signs of stress.

Kipu said farmers are particularly worried that continued dry conditions could lead to further food shortages.

“If this situation continues, our families will face more problems with food and water,” he said.
He is calling on the government and relevant agencies to respond urgently to the needs of the affected communities.

“We are calling on the government to look at this situation quickly and provide assistance, especially with water and food,” Kipu said.

The situation highlights the vulnerability of rural communities in the Markham Valley, where many families depend on food gardens and natural water sources for their daily needs.