(a) (i) Define the term drought (ii) Name two areas affected by drought. (b) Explain any three effects of drought (c) Suggest three ways in which drought can be reduced.
Explanation
(a) (i) Drought is a state of prolonged and abnormal moisture deficiency and a general state of dryness (ii) Any two areas affected by drought; — it helps in pollination — it aids sailing of ships and aviation — Sahelian religion e.g. Senegambia, Mali, Soutern Mauritania, Bukina Faso, N. Ghana, N. Nigeria S. Niger Republic — Desert areas: Namib desert, Californian desert region, Sahara desert (b) Effects of drought; — makes land to lose its biological and economic value — reduction in agricultural productivity — leads to famine and death of livestock and human beings — creates a refugee problem — conflicts between farmers and pastoralists (c) Ways in which drought can be reduced; — planting of drought resistant trees and crops planting of legumes and grasses — provision of artificial water/ irrigation — artificial stimulation or cloud seeding — discouraging people from the use of firewood — creation of green belt — improved methods of farming —controlled grazing — environmental education/public enlightenment — legislation against cutting of trees and bush burning.
