Accurate Climate Information: Key to Informed Decision-Making in Africa’s Climate-Resilient Future
Climate Forecast Warns of Below-Normal Rainfall in Greater Horn of Africa
Addis Ababa, January 22, 2025 – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) has officially released its seasonal climate forecast for March to May (MAM) 2025, predicting below-normal rainfall across much of the Greater Horn of Africa. This forecast highlights the urgent need for anticipatory action and planning by policymakers and local communities.
The Importance of Accurate Climate Information
IGAD Deputy Executive Secretary Mohamed Abdi Ware emphasized the critical role of accurate climate information in decision-making. “It is essential to provide timely and actionable information to policymakers, enabling them to make anticipatory decisions that will have a meaningful impact on people’s lives in the face of climate uncertainty,” he stressed.
Effective Communication and Regional Cooperation
Dr. Abdi Fidar, Officer-in-Charge at ICPAC, underscored the need for effective communication, particularly with farmers and pastoral communities. “This information must be disseminated widely, especially to subsistence farmers and pastoralists, so they can make informed decisions about their livelihoods,” he said. The 69th Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF69) provided a platform for climate experts and stakeholders from key sectors to collaborate on climate risk management.
Regional Climate Outlook
Accurate Climate Information predicts drier conditions for several East African countries. Specifically, Somalia, parts of Kenya, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Eritrea may experience less rainfall than usual. Additionally, this trend extends to regions of South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania. However, some areas buck this trend. For instance, parts of Tanzania, eastern Uganda, and western Ethiopia might see increased precipitation. Furthermore, temperatures across the region are expected to rise above normal levels. Notably, Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, and northern Somalia face the highest probability of warmth. Consequently, this meteorological outlook plays a crucial role in Decision-Making for various sectors in these countries.
Mitigating Climate Risks
Drought conditions will significantly threaten agriculture, water resources, and public health across the region. Stakeholders must implement proactive strategies to reduce potential risks. Specifically, they should prioritize protective interventions for vulnerable groups. Women, children, older individuals, and persons with disabilities require immediate and targeted support. The impending environmental challenges demand swift, comprehensive action to prevent widespread humanitarian consequences. Leaders and community organizations must develop robust mitigation plans that address the most at-risk populations’ immediate and long-term needs.
Collaboration for a Resilient Future
In conclusion, accurate climate information is essential for informed decision-making in the face of climate uncertainty. Regional cooperation and collaboration on climate risk management are vital for building a resilient and sustainable future for all. As Mohamed Abdi Ware emphasized, “Collaboration is key to ensuring a resilient and sustainable future for all.” The GHACOF69 forum, held from January 20-21, 2025, brought together national meteorological and hydrological services, development partners, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for enhancing climate resilience in the region.
Source: Egypt’s News Agency (ENA)