Tanzania clarifies 730 billion shilling El Niño preparedness budget

Tanzanian Government Spokesperson Gerson Msigwa has clarified that the 730 billion shilling figure cited in the National Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan for El Niño for the 2026/2027 fiscal year does not represent new central government funding.

Msigwa explained in Dodoma that the amount is an estimate of the total resources expected to be utilized by government institutions, the private sector, and international organizations. These resources include existing budgets already approved for various agencies to implement precautionary measures.

The preparedness plan follows forecasts from the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) regarding a potentially strong El Niño. The government aims to mitigate risks such as heavy rainfall, flooding, landslides, and disease outbreaks. Key actions include repairing roads, bridges, and drainage systems, as well as protecting health, education, electricity, water, and communication infrastructure. Additionally, the plan involves food procurement, stockpiling rescue equipment, and preparing temporary shelters for displaced citizens.