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Sep

Earth Observation for Africa: Insights from the RCMRD International Conference #RIC2024

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Author: Victor Eseme Omoit

As we edge closer to COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, this year, discussions about earth observation and its role in sustainable development are growing louder. At the heart of these conversations was the RCMRD International Conference (RIC) 2024, themed Earth, Our Only Home. With experts from various fields coming together, the focus was not just on technology, but on how it can drive real-world impact, especially in addressing Africa’s environmental and developmental challenges.

Coming off the high of celebrating TAHMO’s 10th anniversary this past June, I was motivated to join the RCMRD International Conference (RIC) 2024, energized by the endless possibilities for TAHMO’s next decade. As TAHMO’s country coordinator for Kenya, I am well aware of our mission to build a dense network of weather stations across sub-Saharan Africa and how this has contributed to improving climate data collection, particularly in rural and remote areas where there are significant weather data gaps. This data is crucial for weather forecasting, agricultural planning, and managing water resources, which directly impact livelihoods and climate adaptation efforts across the African continent.

At TAHMO, we champion innovation and collaboration, and attending RIC2024 felt like another step forward on our journey. With a decade of success behind us, I felt an urgency to explore new opportunities that will strengthen the foundation for TAHMO’s next phase of impact. This conference couldn’t have come at a better time, aligning seamlessly with our shared mission of leveraging data to confront Africa’s most pressing climate and environmental challenges.

One of the key issues raised during the conference was the need to customize data formats to suit different regions. At the moment, much of the data generated is region-specific, which limits access for those outside the operational zones. This raises the question: How can we extend the reach of this data so that other regions can also benefit? By allowing broader access, data can be used to simulate and analyze different environmental and agricultural scenarios, potentially driving innovation across the continent.

A significant merger highlighted during the conference is the coming together of Opesa and BIOPAMA under the Regional Centre of Excellence for Eastern and Southern Africa (RCoE-ESA). This initiative aims to ensure that Africa’s forests, biodiversity, and coastal landscapes are managed sustainably. Their focus areas include Information Management, Scientific Support, Capacity Building, and Global Engagement.

Earth, our only home.

As of 2022 the world’s population stood at 7.9 billion people, along with diverse wildlife, forests, and countless natural resources, making it very sensitive to disruptions. However, what have we done with it? In recent decades, we’ve witnessed widespread destruction, pushing the Earth in a dangerous direction. If this continues, it will become increasingly difficult, if not impossible, to reverse the damage.

At this conference, I met several conservationists from the Mara region, where TAHMO installed 17 new Weather stations earlier this year, adding to the existing eight. It was encouraging to see their dedication to learning how best to care for our planet. The fact that people traveled from far and wide to gain insights and discuss the next best course of action is a clear sign that we can no longer afford to delay. The urgency to protect the Earth is stronger than ever.

The coming together of organizations such as RCMRD, RCoE-ESA, GEOGLAM, JECAM, TAHMO, the Uganda Meteorological Authority (UNMA), the Kenyan government and many more to discuss how best to save our world is a clear indication that Earth truly is our only home.

Shifting from Technology to Action

Dr. Emmanuel Nkurunziza delivering his opening speech.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Emmanuel Nkurunziza, RCMRD’s Director General, emphasized that the focus should not only be on technology itself but on what it can do for people. “The idea is not to sit in offices and be pleased with what we are doing, but to focus on what people can do with the technology we provide,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of human-centered solutions.

Mrs. Dorcas Okalany, a member of the RCMRD governing council, reiterated this by urging collective responsibility. She pointed out that accurate and timely data is crucial for achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Climate Action, Life on Land, and Sustainable Cities. She also stressed the urgency of decisive action, noting, “The time to act is now.” With Africa’s population growing rapidly, adaptation and innovation will be key to securing a sustainable future.

Dr. Rachel Nyamai, Member of Parliament for Kitui South, made an observation regarding the recent floods that affected Kenya. She emphasized that the timing of the conference couldn’t have been better, as sustained innovation is crucial for managing Africa’s resources. In her speech, she stressed the importance of open data and data sharing in building resilience, particularly in the face of climate disasters. Nyamai’s remarks underscored how better access to earth observation data can assist in forecasting and mitigating future events like the floods, making a compelling case for continued investment in technological infrastructure.

Judith Nalule Nabakooba, Uganda’s Minister of Land, echoed these sentiments, delivering greetings from President Museveni. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing sustainability in every aspect of life. “Our planet, with its abundant resources, is not only our home but also our responsibility,” she stated, calling for bolder actions and collaboration to safeguard the earth for future generations.

Data Access and Infrastructure Challenges

During the plenary session, Charles Mwangi from the Kenya Space Agency, a long-time friend and collaborator of TAHMO, participated as a panelist. Our partnership with Mwangi dates back to the RCMRD Space Challenges, where students leverage weather data for competitions. A significant part of the discussion centered on the challenges Africa faces in effectively utilizing technology for earth observation. One of the key barriers highlighted was the continent’s limited capacity to generate and store its own data. For example, downloading satellite imagery can take hours due to unreliable internet connections and frequent power outages. These infrastructural challenges hinder Africa’s ability to fully leverage technology and close existing gaps. “It’s more about where we want to see Africa go,” Mwangi remarked, emphasizing that governments need to actively invest in technology and infrastructure to support faster data access and use.

Engaging Africa’s Youth in Earth Observation

Between sessions, entertainment by RCMRD students offered a powerful reminder of the potential of youth, while also insisting on the responsibility we all share in preserving the earth. One of the songs they presented “isikuti yahuma Ango”, a traditional Luhya song from western Kenya- brought smiles to the faces of the audience, showing a deep appreciation for the students’ diverse talents and pride in the work being done to guide and mentor the next generation as they prepare to shape the future. The anticipation for what lies ahead was evident in the faces of the audience.

One of the most pressing topics raised during the conference was the role of young people in driving earth observation initiatives. Many panelists pointed out that there’s often a disconnect between the problems facing Africa and the solutions being proposed. Programs like mapathons, hackathons, and boot camps were suggested as ways to bridge this gap and engage the youth in meaningful, problem-solving activities.

When it comes to agriculture, an often overlooked sector by young people, the discussion shifted towards making it more appealing. With organizations like GEOGLAM insisting on integrating data with policy, there are growing opportunities for youth to engage in agriculture through technology and innovation. As farmers are not scientists, bridging the gap with tech-savvy youth can lead to a more dynamic agricultural sector.

Youth from Measurement Systems Limited showcasing their solutions at the exhibition

Looking Ahead

As Africa continues to develop its earth observation capabilities, the focus remains on how to better integrate data into actionable insights. From addressing food security to managing natural resources, collaboration across borders, institutions, and generations will be key to ensuring that Africa’s rich biodiversity and ecosystems are preserved for future generations.

As we gear up for COP29, the message from RIC2024 is clear: Earth is our only home. For TAHMO, this is a reminder of our critical role in building climate resilience across Africa. The future holds immense promise, and I couldn’t be more excited for the journey ahead.

Jun

Honore’s Article

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Honore's Journey with TAHMO

My journey with TAHMO began in 2019 during my university days when I joined as an intern. It was my inaugural foray into the professional world, and every step since then has been immensely enjoyable. TAHMO played a pivotal role in my Final Year Project by providing essential tools and invaluable guidance. From its inception, TAHMO fostered a startup culture marked by innovation, flexibility, and a cohesive team dedicated to a shared vision. The company’s ethos of integrity and transparency has remained steadfast, evolving alongside its growth.

When I first joined TAHMO, it was primarily a solitary endeavor focused on station maintenance. Today, we boast a team of over two assistant technicians equipped to tackle technical challenges with finesse. TAHMO has proudly showcased its innovations at prestigious events like GSMA, the Tech Agriculture Exhibition, and Loop Edutech Incubation by GIZ.

The transition to remote work posed challenges for some stakeholders, but amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual offices have become the new norm. Our responsibility now lies in persuading stakeholders through product excellence rather than physical office spaces.

One of TAHMO’s standout achievements was its partnership with RCMRD in Rwanda to organize the RWANDA SPACE Challenge STEM Bootcamp. Witnessing the boundless potential of the younger generation when provided access to data was truly inspiring. This initiative perfectly embodies TAHMO’s mission of revolutionizing weather services through knowledge-sharing and data-driven decision-making.

Being part of the TAHMO team offers a profound sense of fulfillment, contributing to a noble cause of enhancing weather monitoring and climate resilience across Africa. The opportunity to collaborate with a diverse and talented team, the prospect of innovation and problem-solving, and the avenues for personal and professional growth within the company are all compelling reasons to remain committed to TAHMO’s mission.

Jun

Gilbert’s Article

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Gilbert's Journey with TAHMO

When I initially joined TAHMO, the company culture was deeply ingrained in innovation, collaboration, and a strong sense of purpose. We were passionate about advancing weather monitoring, hydrometeorological solutions, and climate resilience. Our shared commitment drove us to explore cutting-edge technologies and work together to address critical challenges.

Over the years, TAHMO’s culture has evolved. We now place a greater emphasis on diversity, sustainability, and holistic problem-solving. Our commitment to continuous learning and adaptation remains unwavering. Employees are encouraged to explore new ideas, embrace emerging technologies, and contribute to our mission of creating a more resilient world.

Like any organization, TAHMO has encountered a number of challenges including logistical hurdles, technological barriers, and funding constraints.

Working with diverse teams from different countries and cultures presented both opportunities and challenges. TAHMO addressed this by promoting frequent online meet ups that helps to enhance cultural awareness. Further, we promote effective communication protocols and tools to facilitate seamless collaboration across borders.

The rapid evolution of technology in weather monitoring necessitated continuous training and upskilling of team members. TAHMO has a structure to ensure staff are trained on any new equipment we are working on. We promote sharing information on advancements in sensor technology, data analytics, and software development. This fostered a culture of innovation and experimentation, encouraging staff to explore emerging technologies and share their learnings with the team.

Through strategic partnerships, innovative problem-solving, and a resilient team spirit, TAHMO has overcome these challenges and emerged stronger. By leveraging collaborations with local communities, schools and governments, diversifying funding sources, and prioritizing effective communication and collaboration, TAHMO continues to advance its mission of harnessing technology for weather monitoring and climate resilience.

I take immense pride in our contributions to advancing weather monitoring and climate resilience in Africa, both for the present and future generations. Our efforts have expanded our weather station network to over 600 stations, and in over 22 countries, providing crucial data empowering local communities to make informed decisions for their livelihoods and safety. Additionally, our innovation in developing technologies like low-cost weather sensors and data analytics platforms demonstrates our commitment to accessible solutions for weather-related challenges. Moreover, our indirect impact is equally rewarding as we contribute to solutions benefiting the broader public. By facilitating informed decision-making through weather data, we bolster resilience and enhance preparedness across Africa, shaping a more resilient future for generations to come. This dual impact, both direct and indirect, underscores the depth of our accomplishments and fuels my pride as part of the TAHMO team.

Growing up, I always sought a satisfying working environment, and I’ve come to understand that true satisfaction stems from pursuing goals larger than oneself. Such an environment challenges one to continuously learn. TAHMO offers me such a platform. I am impassioned by TAHMO’s mission to utilize technology for positive social and environmental impact. It allows me to immerse myself in various facets, including technology, management, and social aspects, fostering a diverse and enriching experience.

I firmly believe in the collective power of our team to effect meaningful change. TAHMO offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment where I continuously learn, grow, and contribute to making a tangible difference. My commitment to furthering TAHMO’s mission is unwavering, driven by a genuine desire to utilize my skills and expertise for the betterment of society and the environment.

Jun

George’s Story

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George's Journey with TAHMO

I am thrilled at the prospect of sharing the remarkable journey of TAHMO over the past decade, alongside my personal experiences and reflections as a member of this dynamic and visionary organization.

My journey with TAHMO began during my early career, where I first encountered the initiative in 2013 as a university student. Drawn by its innovative approach to weather monitoring and resilience-building, I eagerly participated in the inaugural student design competition, finding in TAHMO a platform to bridge theoretical ideals with practical solutions for societal benefit.

After embarking on a career in the Telecommunication industry as a Radio Frequency Optimization engineer, my connection with TAHMO remained strong. In 2016, I officially joined the TAHMO team as it made concerted efforts to expand its network in Uganda under the Global Resilience Partnership (GRP) project.

This expansion bore fruit in 2017, leading to a significant increase in partnerships and data collection efforts for development purposes. It marked a pivotal moment for TAHMO, further solidifying its position as a stakeholder in weather monitoring and resilience-building across Africa.

From its inception, TAHMO embodied the culture of most tech startups—dynamic, collaborative, and brimming with possibilities. As someone familiar with the hackathon scene, I felt right at home within this environment, where learning and contributing were seamlessly intertwined.

One pivotal aspect of TAHMO’s success story lies in its strategic partnership with METERGROUP (formerly Decagon), which led to the development of an all-in-one weather station. This innovative collaboration resulted in a highly efficient, user-friendly, and cost-effective solution, making our goal of deploying 20,000 weather stations across Africa a reality. The continuous development of this weather station, with input from the entire team, serves as a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence.

However, our journey was not without its challenges. Early on, TAHMO faced obstacles such as the size of its stations and initial skepticism from some organizations, who viewed us as competition. Over time, the effectiveness of TAHMO’s all-in-one station resolved concerns about size, positioning us as stakeholders in the field. Additionally, we actively sought to collaborate with more organizations, fostering a spirit of partnership and collective impact.

As TAHMO evolved over the years, so too did its organizational culture. What began as a startup culture has matured into a professional entity, guided by principles of excellence and integrity. Despite this transformation, our core values of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity have remained unwavering.

Throughout our journey, we’ve encountered challenges, but each obstacle has only served to strengthen our resolve and deepen our impact. From navigating logistical hurdles to addressing technological complexities, the spirit of resilience and ingenuity within the TAHMO team has always prevailed.

As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, I am filled with pride for all that we have accomplished together. From pioneering initiatives in student design competitions to leveraging strategic partnerships for innovation, every milestone has been a testament to our shared commitment to excellence.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the endless possibilities that lie ahead for TAHMO and its team members. As we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, guided by our passion for making a positive impact, I am confident that our best days are yet to come.

In closing, I am grateful for the privilege of being part of TAHMO’s journey—a journey marked by innovation, collaboration, and growth. Here’s to the next decade of pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and shaping a brighter future for Africa and beyond.

Jun

Victor’s Journey with TAHMO

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Victor Omoit

Around November 2016, as I approached my final university exams, I began researching potential post-graduation activities to involve myself in. I spent a significant amount of time online searching for an organization that resonated with me. That is when I stumbled upon TAHMO and was immediately captivated by it’s ambitious goal. As I explored the website, I carefully read through the details about their ambitious vision, ongoing projects, and the profiles of their staff members. The more I immersed myself in it, the stronger my connection grew, solidifying my desire to align my career aspirations with TAHMO, not only out of passion but also as a meteorologist.

Submitting an internship application felt like a long shot, considering my prior experiences with no responses from other organizations, but to my surprise, I received a response within a week. While they didn’t have openings at the time, they assured me they would consider me for subsequent intakes. This gesture of acknowledgment meant a lot to me, reflecting an organization that values feedback and nurtures positive relationships.

Fast forward to March 2017, I was given a three-month internship at TAHMO, and this is where it all began. During this period, I contributed to developing lesson plans for teachers to incorporate TAHMO weather data for classroom use. We engaged in weekly online meetings with fellow interns and the School-2-School Coordinator at that time, Elizabeth Jachens just to ensure that we furnished our work to the required standards.

The internship proved to be a transformative experience, offering amazing lessons in organizational communication, email etiquette, networking, and client relations. I also engaged in weather station maintenance under Gilbert Mwangi’s guidance, which further fueled my passion.

Contrary to my initial apprehensions about hierarchical structures, I discovered TAHMO encourages an environment of innovation and collaboration, where even junior members like myself were encouraged to voice ideas and initiatives. The support I received, both in terms of mentorship and financial backing, boosted my confidence a lot.

I was given opportunities to lead activities and participate in fieldwork across locations like Lamu and Lodwar, which provided hands-on learning experiences. Weekly meetings with Gilbert ensured alignment and progress. Upon completing my internship, receiving a certificate signed by Professor John Selker was a moment of pride for me.

Throughout 2017, I continued supporting TAHMO on a voluntary basis until March 2018 when I was formally employed as a Field Engineer in Kenya. Since then, my journey with TAHMO has been one of continuous growth and learning. From traveling to countries I never imagined visiting to tackling challenging projects, TAHMO has provided me with opportunities to evolve both personally and professionally.

Seven years later, I am still able to reach any person within the ranks and get feedback in time. Frank, the CEO’s advice, “there is power in asking,” has remained ingrained in my approach. It has encouraged a spirit of curiosity and continuous improvement in me.

TAHMO’s culture is strengthened through it’s emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity. Encouraging open dialogue and idea-sharing among team members, regardless of hierarchy, encourages a sense of value and empowerment. Regular communication channels and mentorship opportunities further nurture a culture of continuous learning and growth, creating a cohesive and supportive environment where creativity thrives and shared goals are pursued with resilience and purpose.

TAHMO has experienced significant growth in various aspects overtime. Initially, the team in Kenya comprised only two members: Gilbert Mwangi, serving as the East African director, and myself as a field engineer. However, in 2019, Stella Malinda joined us as an administrator, handling administrative and finance matters not only in Kenya but also to TAHMO as a whole. This has Contributed immensely to our operational efficiency.

With dedicated effort and support from the management and colleagues across different countries, we focused on expanding opportunities for youth within TAHMO. In 2018 alone, we successfully absorbed 18 interns into various departments, including fieldwork, data quality, finance, and communication. This influx of talent not only enriched our team but also created a platform for young professionals to gain valuable experience.

Over time, the interest in internships and volunteering with TAHMO has grown, with individuals recognizing the organization’s commitment to mentorship and skill development. The positive impact of our internship program extends beyond TAHMO, as former interns have also transitioned into roles in other organizations and others have evolved into field assistants, leveraging the knowledge acquired during their time with TAHMO to contribute to other ongoing activities in their respective areas and also helping TAHMO with some activities around their region when they can.

To sustain our internship program’s success, we have continually sought out engaging activities for interns, ensuring their meaningful participation and development. This proactive approach has yielded favorable results, with our capacity to host interns steadily increasing over time.

In parallel to our human resource growth, TAHMO has also expanded it’s physical infrastructure. The weather station network in Kenya, for example, has grown from 75 weather stations when I initially joined to an impressive 152 stations today. This expansion demonstrates our commitment to improving weather monitoring capabilities and enhancing data collection across the region. This growth is not limited to Kenya alone; the overall TAHMO network has expanded from approximately 400 to around 700 weather stations across various countries.

Furthermore, TAHMO has established several new departments, including Data Quality Assurance and Quality Control, Client Relations, Remote Support, Finance, and Research. Each department is led by directors from different parts of Africa, encouraging a diverse and collaborative environment. This expansion has provided numerous opportunities for team synergy and learning, through physical meetings, online sessions, and workshops.

As a proud member of the TAHMO team, I am happy with the numerous accomplishments we have achieved collectively over the past years.

Our involvement in projects such as the TWIGA project, Ground Truth 2.0, Tanzania Urban Resilience Program (TURP), and the ongoing TEMBO Project has been particularly satisfying. These projects have allowed us to make significant strides in weather monitoring and resilience-building efforts, which have positively impacted communities across various regions.

Through online trainings and forums, our team has continuously enhanced their knowledge and skills in weather monitoring and data analysis. We have had the opportunity to interact with and operate a variety of weather measuring instruments, including a series of Campbell data loggers, Disdrometers, Ijinus sensors, Rq30 radar sensors from Sommer instruments, a range of soil moisture sensors, and IP cameras for monitoring river flows. These experiences have not only expanded our technical expertise but also enabled us to better serve the needs of our partners and stakeholders.

Our participation in international forums and workshops has been instrumental in promoting collaboration and capacity building within the meteorological community. By sharing our experiences and learning from experts in the field, we have been able to stay at the forefront of advancements in weather monitoring and contribute to the development of innovative solutions to address environmental challenges.

Being part of the TAHMO team has been incredibly rewarding, and I am proud to have played a role in these impactful projects and initiatives.

TAHMO’s commitment to providing vital weather data for better decision-making and resilience-building efforts resonates deeply with me. Making a positive difference in communities aligns perfectly with my values, particularly when it comes to environmental sustainability. Contributing to projects that promote sustainability gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment in my work.

Moreover, TAHMO offers an abundance of opportunities for growth, both professionally and personally. Engaging in diverse projects and acquiring new skills through training and collaboration continuously challenges and empowers me to expand my capabilities. I thrive in TAHMO’s innovative and collaborative environment, where creativity is encouraged, and new ideas are welcomed with open arms. This freedom to explore innovative solutions to complex challenges is exciting and contributes to the organization’s ongoing success.

What truly sets TAHMO apart is its dedicated and supportive team. Working alongside individuals who are equally committed to our common goals encourages a positive work culture where everyone feels valued and respected. Additionally, being part of TAHMO provides me with opportunities for international exposure and collaboration. Interacting with colleagues and partners from diverse backgrounds broadens my perspective and enhances my cross-cultural communication and collaboration skills.

TAHMO prioritizes professional development and invests in its employees’ growth. Whether through tailored training programs, attendance at conferences, or mentorship opportunities, I feel fully supported in my journey to continuously improve and excel in my role.

TAHMO has given me a lot, right from when I completed campus as a junior professional. It has been instrumental in my growth, holding my hand every step of the way. I am proud to say that I have evolved into a productive member of society, thanks to TAHMO’s guidance and support. I feel indebted to TAHMO for its role in my development and I am committed to helping TAHMO achieve its goals in Africa; one station every 30 Kms.

Apr

Urban flood warning for Dire Dawa, Ethiopia

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Urban flood warning for Dire Dawa, Ethiopia

Early Warning and Anticipatory Actions receive increasing attention recently. Of the many hazards subject of early warning, we note that urban flooding is simultaneously one of the more challenging and impactful issues especially in developing countries and Africa in particular. HKV, Deltares, the Netherlands Red Cross, TAHMO and ICPAC have united to take up this challenge.

Rapid urbanization across Africa results in crowded, poorly planned cities. Many of these cities face floods several times a year, usually in lower-income, vulnerable and informal areas. Large damages and loss of lives are common impacts. While flood mitigation measures are expensive and require complex urban planning processes, early warning and early actions can mitigate impacts effectively.

Early warning for urban areas is challenging in multiple ways. Urban floods typically occur within a few hours after severe rainfall and occur suddenly and very locally. This makes them hard to predict, with a need for timely, precise and accurate information. It also provides a challenge in warning dissemination and anticipatory actions, once floods are predicted, to ensure the right actions are taken and people are informed timely and effectively.

Our consortium brings together expertise on monitoring and short term forecasting of extreme rainfall in Africa, super-fast flood models and carefully designed warning dissemination and anticipatory action protocols. This is combined into an early warning system for urban floods. Specifically, we will work on research into and the application of:

Merging satellite-based rainfall estimates and TAHMO sensors for nowcasting to provide

precipitation forecasts for short lead times,

A coupling between a distributed hydrological model and an innovative rapid flood

inundation model to calculate urban flood impacts at high computational speed, and

Integration of the rainfall forecast and flood impact model for urban flooding in impact

based forecasting platforms to enable anticipatory action.

With support of the Dutch Partners For Water program, we will pilot this solution in Dire Dawa in Ethiopia. This is a city of almost half a million citizens, which suffered many flood induced casualties over past decades. After this pilot, the concept is ready for application to other urban areas in Africa.

The project is aligned with the Water at the Heart of Climate Action partnership.

Nov

blog

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TAHMO Attended GSMA MWC Meeting

In October, representatives from TAHMO in Rwanda and Tanzania embarked on a transformative journey to the GSMA MWC Kigali Series. The GSMA, a global organization dedicated to unifying the mobile ecosystem and driving innovation for positive change in both business and society, set the stage for an inspiring gathering.

As a climate and weather observatory institution, TAHMO found itself uniquely positioned to leverage the opportunities presented at this event. The theme of a “new chapter for climate action” resonated deeply with the organization’s mission. However, the real game-changer was TAHMO’s selection by the GSMA Mobile for Development Foundation, Inc. for an Innovation Fund Grant Agreement. This recognition was more than just an accolade; it was a chance to further their noble cause.

The vibrant setting of the KIGALI M Hotel hosted a startup boot camp on the 15th and 16th of October, attended by Lisa from Tanzania. The connections made during this event would prove to be pivotal in the days to come.

On the first day of the meeting, attendees were treated to insights from notable speakers, including the esteemed President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame. His emphasis on “making digital life cheap and inclusive” set the tone for a gathering aimed at breaking barriers and driving positive change.

The second day of the meeting maintained the momentum, focusing on “unleashing tomorrow’s technology today.” Sessions were dedicated to building a connected Africa, with distinguished speakers like Lacine Kone sharing their perspectives and expertise.

The overarching theme of the GSMA MWC Kigali Series was crystal clear: the mobile industry had the potential to be a force for good in the realm of climate action. Climate change is an existential threat that humanity must address, and the mobile industry is poised to play a significant role in this global battle.

The mobile sector has made significant strides by collectively developing an industry-wide climate action roadmap with the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, aligning with the Paris Agreement. The commitment of around 80% of the global mobile industry by revenue to disclose their climate impacts, energy consumption, and GHG emissions through the CDP global disclosure system was a testament to their dedication. Moreover, over 60% of the industry had committed to science-based targets, a pledge to rapidly reduce carbon emissions over the next decade.

The mobile industry’s proactive approach to addressing climate change didn’t go unnoticed. It was recognized as one of the first breakthrough industries, with the GSMA serving as an accelerator for the UN Race to Zero initiative. The Mobile for Development’s ClimateTech program was furthering these efforts, aiming to foster greater integration between digital technology and climate mitigation, adaptation, and resilience strategies, particularly in low and middle-income countries.

TAHMO’s mission aligned seamlessly with these global efforts. The Trans-African Hydro-Meteorological Observatory (TAHMO) was on a mission to develop an extensive network of weather stations across Africa. These stations would provide critical current and historical weather data essential for various applications, including agriculture, climate monitoring, and hydro-meteorology. TAHMO’s presence at the GSMA MWC Kigali Series was a testament to their commitment to harnessing the power of mobile technology for the betterment of Africa and the planet.

In Kigali, a shared vision for climate action, innovation, and a more connected world brought people and organizations together. It was a glimpse into a brighter, more sustainable future where mobile technology played a pivotal role in the fight against climate change. As the event concluded, attendees departed with renewed determination and a sense of purpose, ready to continue their collective journey towards a more sustainable and climate-resilient world.

Author: Cyuzuzo Honore

May

Workshop : Sustainable Climate Information Services (CIS):Expanding CIS delivery through innovative financial and business arrangements

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In September 2018 TAHMO was invited by Winrock International to participate in a workshop in Dakar, Senegal on: ‘‘Sustainable Climate Information Services (CIS): Expanding CIS delivery through innovative financial and business arrangements’’.
After the welcome speeches done by Julia Bradley-Cook (USAID); Filipe Lucio (GFCS Director, WMO); and Robert O’Sullivan (Winrock International) who also gave a brief introduction of the Sustainable CIS project and a review of the agenda.
The workshop was divided into two sessions: A review of metrics to assess the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) capacity and a review of the NMHS financial planning tool. In summary, the workshop allowed the organizers to present both Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) metrics:

1. Observations and Monitoring; 2. Research, Modeling, and Prediction; 3. Climate Service Information System; 4. User Interface Platform; and, 5. Capacity Development.) and the WMO NMHS Categories (1. Basic Climate Services; 2. Essential Climate Services; 3. Full Climate Services; and 4. Advanced Climate) Services. These two schemas were combined by WMO to create a new framework to guide the NMHS enterprise in identifying their needs and finding resources through either donor, private or PPP.

Dr Theophile MANDE, the representative of TAHMO in the workshop contributed to the discussion by sharing TAHMO’s experience in working with NMHSs reporting on both positive elements and challenges.
In terms of challenges four groups could be identified:
Administrative challenges
Having MoU signed with NMHSs (which is sometimes really difficult and it can take several years);
Having NMHSs staff involved in the station installation, monitoring

and

maintenance;
Have experienced localhost (Not enough skills or

overexploited

competences);
Need a lot of

localhost

(at least one per village where we have stations installed).
Economic challenges
Acquire the stations
The cost of the installation and maintenance
Paid field staff (Engineer; Directors; local Host)
Equipment challenges
Local conditions (access to sites; safety etc.)
Sensors breaking; dust and batteries
Software update
Station cleaning (rain gauge)
Data sharing challenges
On this particular challenge, several questions arise: How to share data? With who? Under which conditions (free, sell)?
For TAHMO these data have to be free at least for scientific needs but deep exchanges with NMHSs are necessarily knowing that data production is their first activity and source of income.
Success
TAHMO achieved building strong relationships with several NMHSs with around 25 MoU signed and a network of more than 500 stations installed from which more than 90% are running. The data collected is frequently checked by TAHMO QA/QC team which ensures good quality data. These data are also easily available through the network.
TAHMO’s participation and contribution at the workshop were very much appreciated by the organizer and an appointment was made for the next workshop.
On behalf of TAHMO, Dr. MANDE thanked WINROCK and its partners for inviting TAHMO to this workshop which appears to be very rich and relevant for both NMHS and Private structures such as TAHMO. A details study of these approaches will be done by TAHMO aiming to adapt them to their needs; the representative of TAHMO believes that this tool (if accepted and used by NMHS after validation) will help improve both (administrative and financial) relationships between NMHSs and Private Sectors which will be clear and win-win.