In a major step for climate resilience, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) held an important meeting from March 25 to 27, 2025, in Arusha, Tanzania. Heads of Meteorological Services from six East African nations—Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia, South Sudan, and Uganda—came together to tackle the pressing challenges posed by climate change. This gathering emphasized the need for regional teamwork to improve weather forecasting and early warning systems.
The focus of the event was on how these nations can better cooperate. Good, reliable weather and climate information is crucial for making informed decisions, especially as climate-related events become more common. Central to this effort is the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS) East Africa project, which aims to enhance local meteorological capabilities.
The CREWS initiative has made a significant impact in the region. It works closely with local communities to improve the sharing of weather forecasts and climate alerts. In collaboration with international partners like the UK Met Office and the Finnish Meteorological Institute, CREWS promotes the exchange of knowledge and expertise, essential for building a stronger response to extreme weather and climate emergencies.
The meeting highlighted the necessity of a unified approach to climate risks in East Africa. Participants, including meteorological experts and government officials, shared insights and success stories, underlining the need to integrate early warning systems into national disaster response plans. These systems not only alert communities about severe weather events but also play a vital role in minimizing the impacts of climate change, particularly for those most affected.
A key topic was the influence of technology in meteorology. Innovations in satellite imaging, weather modeling, and communication have made forecasts more accurate and timely. This technological advancement enhances real-time monitoring, providing even better warning systems for the region.
WMO also discussed strengthening partnerships with international organizations and governments. This collective approach aims to address climate change, disaster risk, and sustainable development. By supporting local meteorological services through CREWS, WMO helps these nations not just in emergency response but also in long-term climate trend forecasting, which is vital for informed national planning.
In essence, the Arusha gathering showcased how collaboration and shared expertise can enhance the ability of East African countries to manage climate risks. With improved meteorological services, these nations are better positioned to provide critical early warnings, protect communities, and sustain their economies amid a changing climate. Moving forward, ongoing support from WMO, the East African Community, and global partners will be vital for further developing these capabilities, ensuring that lifesaving information is available throughout the region.
For more in-depth insights on meteorological advancements, you can visit the World Meteorological Organization website.
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Source linkWorld Meteorological Organization, Tanzania, East African Community, CREWS East Africa
