JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – SOUTH Africans of all affiliations are set to unite in prayer next Friday in the wake of drought conditions in the country.

The Day of Prayer, scheduled for Nampo Park in Johannesburg has received the backing of the country’s agricultural sector as well as political and traditional leaders.

Agri SA President, Johannes Möller, hailed the move pointing out the drought was threatening wildlife, environment and human life.

“Problems and obstacles are not unique to the country and the agricultural sector, but when drought conditions destroy nature and specifically animal life, as is currently the case, it touches everyone’s heart,” Möller said.

He said the Agri SA had learned with appreciation of various events where the public could come together to pray for rain.

Möller said agriculture was experiencing climatic extremes of an unprecedented nature which can seriously undermine farmers’ ability to produce normally and ensure food security in the country.

“The wave of dissatisfaction and concern among people around working conditions, service delivery, corruption etc. detracts from a peaceful society and contributes to the polarisation of communities.

“We believe now is the time to reach out to each other as believers from all denominations and religions. South Africans live in sensitive and difficult times and we therefore call on all churches and their members to use Sunday to reach out to their fellow citizens and pray for rain,” said Möller.

The dry conditions, which have seen the country’s largest source of water- Vaal Dam-almost run dry has compelled authorities in both the commercial capital Johannesburg and Tshwane to call for careful usage of water.

The dry outlook spells are driven by effects Elino, which has affected other Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Besides South Africa, other countries at risk are Botswana, Namibia, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

– CAJ News