Message of the African Union Commission at the World Meteorological Day 2024

AUC leads Africa at the frontline of Climate Action, marking World Meteorological Day 2024

Today, 23^rd March 2024, the African Union honors World Meteorological Day 2024 under the theme, "At the frontline of climate action".

This theme embodies the urgent call for collective responsibility and decisive action in the fight against the challenges of climate change. “Africa must recognize the critical role that meteorological science and practitioners play in developing our understanding of climate dynamics. They facilitate effective climate action for Disaster Risk Reduction and social economic impact for all citizens.”

Meteorologists, climate scientists, policymakers, and citizens alike are at the forefront of this fight against climate change. Africa witnesses firsthand the profound impacts of rising temperatures, changing weather patterns, and extreme weather events on our communities, ecosystems, and economies. From devastating tropical cyclones to prolonged droughts, the signs of climate change are unmistakable and require our immediate attention and action.

At this crucial moment, meteorological science is proving to be a beacon of hope, providing the knowledge, tools, and insights needed to tackle the climate crisis head-on. Advanced modeling, data analysis and observation, meteorologists, and climate scientists provide invaluable climate predictions and weather forecasts that allow us to anticipate and mitigate the effects of climate variability and extreme weather events. At the AUC, the Climate Services and Related Application Programme (ClimSA) supports Regional Climate Centres (RCCs) and National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) to deliver climate information services to a diverse user base at continental, regional, and national levels.

However, AUC’s efforts to address climate change go far beyond the realm of science. They require relentless commitment, collaboration, and innovation across all sectors of society. We must work together to implement sustainable solutions, promote renewable energy sources, and implement resilient practices that will protect our continent for future generations.

Furthermore, AUC’s pursuit of a more sustainable and just world prioritizes the needs and voices of those most affected by the impacts of climate change. Environmental justice requires that we address the disproportionate burden on marginalized communities and ensure that our climate policies promote inclusivity, fairness, and social justice.

On this World Meteorological Day, AUC Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy Directorate through the interventions of the ClimSA programme, reaffirms Africa with the commitment to being proactive stewards of our continent. It is Africa's time to harness the power of meteorological science to make fact-based decisions and inspire meaningful action at all levels of society. Together, let us rise to the challenge of climate change and create a better and more sustainable future for the Africa We Want! (Agenda 2063).

H.E. Amb. Josefa Sacko,

AU Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (ARBE)

For more information

Dr. Jolly Wasambo,

AUC-CLIMSA Programme Coordinator at the African Union Commission; e-mail wasamboj@africa-union.org

For Media inquiry 

Molalet Tsedeke, Media Coordinator, Directorate of Information and Communication, AU Commission; E:mail- Molalett@africa-union.org; WhtsApp:+251-911-630-631

Diana Chacha,

AUC-ClimSA Programme Communication, Visibility, and Knowledge Management; e-mail: chacha@africa-union.org