IMPROVING LIVES THROUGH DATA ECOSYSTEMS

South Africa has been experiencing drier and hotter weather in the last few months. According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS) the heatwave that started on Sunday, 19 November 2023 and reached its peak on 27 November, broke records for being the hottest November in the country. On the 27th of November, more than 10 weather stations recorded the highest temperature records with the Automatic Weather Station at Augrabies Falls, in Upington, recording the highest maximum temperature of 46.7°C. These high temperatures have harmed the agriculture sector (one of the most climate-sensitive industries), causing crop yields to decrease and increasing livestock losses. For instance, Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa, says that in various parts of the country, summer grains such as maize, sunflowers and soybeans are in the pollination stages, but they are not the best crops because the country should ideally have higher moisture levels during this stage to boost yields. This may potentially result in higher food inflation and increased food insecurity in the country. To help cope with the extreme heat, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, wear lightweight clothes and try to stay out of the sun, especially between 10 am and 4 pm when the heat is at its peak.
This month, the educational article is based on the report titled Child Series Volume II: Crime against children, 2022 (Report No:92-02-02) published by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) on 27 February 2024. Also, have a look at our monthly crossword puzzle and solutions for the February 2024 puzzle. Articles published in this issue are based on the results of industry surveys conducted for December 2023 and January 2024.

Download Mbalo brief – March 2024