CHANGES IN PRECIPITATION AND IRRIGATION PATTERN IN ANGOLA: CASE STUDY OF CUNENE PROVINCE

This study is justified by the need to understand the impacts of climate change on precipitation patterns in Cunene Province, Angola, and how these changes affect local agriculture. Annual precipitation data from 1991 to 2023 were analysed, obtained from global sources, along with irrigation data collected by the Ministry of Energy and Water. The relationship between precipitation and irrigation was assessed, as well as climate projections up to 2050. The results show a strong negative correlation between precipitation rate and the need for irrigation (r = -0.97), highlighting the growing dependence on irrigation systems during drought years. Projections indicate a reduction in precipitation of between 10% to 20% by 2050, exacerbating water security challenges. The adoption of water management policies, the modernisation of irrigation systems, and the use of drought-resistant crops will be essential to mitigate future impacts in the province.