Warning of hunger amid rain shortage in Mozambique

About 1,300 people are on the verge of starvation because of hot weather and a shortage of rainfall in southern Mozambique, according to a government official.

The persistent high temperatures in the Mapulanguene administrative post of Magude district in Maputo province have devastated crops in the area, according to the head of the post Fernando Djinge.

He said the Matsandzane region is the worst hit and if the situation prevails, the area will experience pockets of hunger in the coming months.

He added that all crops sown in September have dried up adding the area is facing acute hunger.

The government is encouraging farmers to plant crops resistant to drought such as cassava and sweet potatoes.

Mr Djinge said these crops are non-traditional in Mapulanguene but they are the best option.