Ilha Brava farmers lose hope for favorable agricultural year

While the Cape Verdean government has classified the agricultural year as "less good" at national level, on Brava, the reality on the ground is particularly difficult. The lack of rainfall is severely conditioning the island's agricultural sector.

The expected rains for the crucial planting period have not occurred in sufficient quantity or with the necessary distribution, frustrating the expectations generated by the INMG's prognoses.

Rain-fed crops, such as corn and beans, which are essential for food and the local economy, are suffering from a lack of water. Many crops are developing slowly, or even losing production altogether in the worst-affected areas.

The situation is leading to growing discouragement among farmers who have invested time and resources and are now facing the prospect of heavy losses. In addition to the drought, there are also reports that the constant presence of monkeys has exacerbated the problem, seriously compromising the crops.

Despite the authorities' efforts, such as the distribution of seeds and technical support, the capricious nature of the climate in Cape Verde, with its vulnerability to droughts and atmospheric instability, remains the biggest challenge.

"We spend a lot of money to produce and when there's a lack of rain, we lose everything," lamented one producer, echoing the general feeling of helplessness in the face of climate change affecting the archipelago.

The farmers are calling for emergency measures and greater support to mitigate the losses and guarantee food security for the people of Brava.