Mauritius is experiencing the driest July in 120 years, significantly impacting the island’s sugar production—a crucial industry that accounts for 10% of its exports. This drought poses a severe threat to the economy and puts additional pressure on the nation’s currency. In July, the island received only 48 millimeters of rain, which is about 36% of the long-term average, according to the meteorological services. This alarming shortage of rainfall puts cane farming, which covers nearly one-fifth of Mauritius’ land, in jeopardy. Growers are already grappling with water rationing, amplifying the impact of the drought.
Key Details:
The prolonged dry spell is worsening the impact of extreme weather on southern Africa. In neighboring regions, farmers from Angola to Zimbabwe and Mozambique have faced the worst drought in over four decades. Additionally, heavy flooding in Cape Town, South Africa, displaced thousands during the wettest July on record.
Mauritius typically receives most of its rainfall from January to March. However, continued dry conditions before this period will likely exacerbate challenges for cane and vegetable growers. The meteorological services have reduced their rainfall forecast through October to below normal for Mauritius, home to 1.26 million people.
Expert Insight:
“The agricultural sector is already under stress,” said Jacqueline Sauzier, General Secretary of the Mauritius Chamber of Agriculture. She noted that existing water restrictions limit cane growers to just 36 hours of irrigation per week, which puts further strain on an industry that generates crucial foreign currency.
Economic Implications:
Last year, sugar-industry revenue in Mauritius increased by 19%, reaching 10.5 billion rupees ($227 million). However, dam levels have already fallen to as low as 59% as the nation enters its typically dry summer season. While tropical storms and cyclones generally bring heavy rain from January onwards, the current water shortages pose a significant threat to agricultural output.
