Cabinet warns El Niño could deepen water and food security pressures

Cabinet is preparing for the possible impact of an El Niño event in 2026-27, warning of pressure on water security, agriculture, drought preparedness and food supplies.

Cabinet is preparing for the possible impact of an El Niño event in 2026-2027, warning that it could put further pressure on water security, agriculture and food supplies.

Cabinet discussed a report on the potential weather event and measures to mitigate its effects, particularly in areas where water resources and municipal water security are already under pressure.

Speaking during Tuesday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the effects could extend beyond water security and have a wider impact on South Africans.

“The impact will go beyond water security. It will affect every South African in all forms and in all fronts,” Ntshavheni said.

Ntshavheni said agriculture could face severe consequences if the El Niño event materialises, particularly through drought and its effect on food security.

“However, the El Niño, if it takes place, will have severe consequences for the agricultural sector in terms of drought and drought preparedness and also food, and that will impact food security,” she said.

The response will also take into account the risk of fires, with disaster-management centres and municipal fire services needing to be prepared to respond.

Ntshavheni said Cabinet was also considering the impact of the potential weather event on households already facing cost-of-living pressures.

“We are aware that South Africans are already experiencing high cost of living,” Ntshavheni said.

She said President Cyril Ramaphosa would establish an inter-ministerial team to coordinate the government’s response, including preparations for fires.

The team would also ensure disaster management centres and municipal fire services were ready to respond.

Ntshavheni said Cabinet was assessing the possible effects of El Niño across different sectors, including the impact of fuel prices and energy costs.

Cabinet has called on provincial and municipal authorities to remain on high alert and strengthen their preparedness measures.

Communities have also been urged to monitor warnings from the South African Weather Service and follow disaster-management guidance, particularly in areas at risk of flooding, strong winds, hail and other severe weather.