By Gabriel Ameh, The Sight News
With a strong focus on digital transformation and its role in climate resilience, Africa is set to chart a resilient future as the 2024 State of the Climate in Africa Report launches on May 12, 2025, at the UNECA compound in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
In a media advisory circulated across the continent, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) announced that, in collaboration with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the African Union Commission (AUC), and key regional and international partners, the much-anticipated climate report will be unveiled on the stated date.
According to Dr. Kosmos Akande-Alasoka, Public Information Officer, WMO Regional Office for Africa (RAF), the event will allow for virtual participation, broadening its reach.
Now in its sixth edition, the State of the Climate in Africa Report is WMO’s flagship publication, offering authoritative, science-based updates on climate trends, extreme weather events, and their impacts across the continent. Dr. Akande-Alasoka explained that the report is the result of collaboration among National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs), UN agencies, and scientific experts across Africa and beyond.
This year’s report places special emphasis on digital transformation as a critical tool for climate adaptation and building resilience. It underscores the importance of timely, accurate, and accessible weather and climate information to guide decision-making, improve disaster preparedness, and support sustainable development.
The hybrid launch event will feature presentations and high-level statements from prominent African policymakers and climate authorities. Dr. Agnes Kijazi, Director, WMO Regional Office for Africa, will moderate the event, with introductory remarks from Prof. Celeste Saulo, WMO Secretary-General, and Mr. Fetene Teshome, President of Regional Association I (Africa).
Other speakers include: Dr. Ernest Afiesimama, WMO Regional Office for Africa, presenting the report; Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary, UNECA (TBC); Moses Vilakati, AU Commissioner for Environment; Mike Elton Mposha MP, Zambia’s Minister of Green Economy and Environment, AMCOMET Vice Chair (TBC); and Dr. Aderito Celso Félix Aramuge, RA I Vice President, delivering closing remarks.
For further details, stakeholders, meteorologists, and climatologists are advised to contact Dr. Kosmos E. Akande-Alasoka, Public Information Officer, WMO Regional Office for Africa, at Lideta Sub City, Yared Street, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Mobile: +251944363280, Email: kakand-alasoka@wmo.int.
Event details: Date: 12 May 2025; Time: 3:00–4:30 p.m. (EAT); Venue: UNECA Compound, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
