In a recent visit to the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) headquarters in Dagoretti Corner, Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale underscored the critical role of accurate weather forecasting in Kenya’s well-being amid worsening global climate conditions. The visit aimed to familiarize Duale with KMD’s operations and to address the institution’s performance and future needs.
During the visit, CS Duale emphasized the importance of KMD’s role in providing timely and precise weather information. He highlighted that accurate forecasts are essential not only for daily life but also for strategic planning across various sectors, including agriculture, aviation, and disaster management. “Weather information is crucial for Kenya’s overall well-being,” Duale remarked. “The aviation sector relies heavily on your forecasts, and the Ministry of Agriculture depends on your data to ensure food security in our country.”
Duale’s comments reflect a growing concern over the impact of climate change and the need for reliable meteorological data to navigate its effects. The Cabinet Secretary acknowledged recent improvements in KMD’s technology and equipment, which have led to more accurate weather predictions and increased public confidence in the institution. However, he stressed that the department must continue to enhance its forecasting capabilities to keep pace with the changing climate and its associated challenges.
The Cabinet Secretary also commended KMD for its modernization efforts, which have improved the accuracy of weather forecasts. He noted that such advancements are vital for enabling all sectors of the economy to make informed decisions based on reliable weather information. Duale’s support for KMD’s technological upgrades reflects a broader commitment to bolstering the institution’s capacity to address Kenya’s climate-related challenges effectively.
During his visit, Duale assured KMD of his full support and pledged to advocate for increased financial backing for the department from both the government and development partners. He emphasized that accurate weather forecasts are critical for managing the severity of climate-induced extremes, such as flooding and droughts, which have become increasingly prevalent in Kenya. By securing additional resources, Duale aims to ensure that KMD can continue to deliver high-quality forecasts and support Kenya’s climate action agenda.
The ongoing legislative process to transform KMD into a semi-autonomous state entity was also a key topic during the visit. Duale expressed his commitment to ensuring the passage of the Meteorological Bill currently before Parliament. The proposed transformation aims to enhance KMD’s operational independence and efficiency, allowing it to better respond to the evolving needs of the nation.
Accompanying Duale on the visit were Environment and Climate Change Principal Secretary Dr. Eng. Festus Ng’eno and several senior officials from the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort required to address Kenya’s climate challenges and support the ongoing development of KMD.
KMD, a department under the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, plays a crucial role in providing timely weather and climate information for the safety of life, protection of property, and conservation of the natural environment. The institution’s work is vital for preparing and responding to weather-related events and ensuring that Kenya can effectively tackle the impacts of climate change.
As Kenya continues to grapple with the effects of a changing climate, the call for accurate and reliable weather forecasts becomes increasingly urgent. CS Duale’s challenge to KMD highlights the need for continuous improvement in meteorological services to support national development and resilience in the face of climate variability.
