Malawi government pushes for stronger early warning systems to combat climate shocks
The Malawi government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the country’s early warning systems as part of efforts to build resilience against the growing threat of climate-related disasters.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement workshop under the Climate Risk Early Warning Systems (CREWS) project, Secretary for Natural Resources and Climate Change Yusuf Nkungula said the government is working with development partners to modernize climate information services, despite challenges in equipment and infrastructure.
“We are engaging stakeholders to solicit ideas and recommendations on how we can improve our aeronautic and early warning systems,” said Nkungula.
“Our main gaps are in data collection, dissemination, and access to modern equipment. That is why we are focusing on both infrastructure and technology improvements.”
Nkungula noted that artificial intelligence (AI) is being explored as a key tool to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of climate data collection and forecasting.
“We are in a digital era, and AI will allow us to collect precise data and improve knowledge management,” he said.
“Though we have some reliable AI systems in place, we are working to strengthen and expand their use for effective planning and disaster preparedness.”
He further revealed that the government is in the process of procuring two advanced weather radars—one for Blantyre and another for the central region—with future plans for a third in the northern region.
These radars are expected to enhance real-time weather monitoring and forecasting capabilities.
Representatives from the World Bank and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), who are key partners in the project, emphasized the importance of reliable climate data for informed decision-making.
Catalina Marulanda, Manager for the World Bank’s Urban Disaster Risk Management and Land Unit for East Africa, stressed the need for proactive planning rather than reactive responses.
“Malawi is highly vulnerable to climate shocks. Through our support under the Regional Climate Resilience Project, we want to help the country move from response mode to a more predictive and preventive approach,” she said.
Marulanda also highlighted the critical role of data in designing risk-informed infrastructure and investments.
Echoing this, Joshua Ngaina from the WMO Regional Office for Eastern and Southern Africa said the CREWS workshop is vital for aligning efforts among stakeholders and ensuring efficient use of limited resources through coordination and synergy.
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