Abstract:
National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) provide weather
and climate information, which supports various socio-economic sectors. The
Ethiopian Meteorological Institute (EMI) has been providing essential meteorological
data, forecasts, and services in support of the climate-sensitive sectors such as
agriculture, water resource management, disaster risk reduction, public health,
and energy among others. EMI has a long history in weather and climate services,
with the first meteorological station established in 1890. The institute has made
steady progress over the last seven decades. It has expanded its meteorological
observation network, improved its weather and climate forecast at different
time scales, has made strides in enhancing the generation and dissemination of
climate information products, strengthened engagement with users, and made
concerted efforts to develop its infrastructure and skilled manpower. Despite the
strides it has made, EMI has faced notable challenges, which is shared with many
African NMHSs, such as financial constraints, technical limitations, inadequate
infrastructure, and shortages of skilled personnel. Despite the challenges, EMI has
made some progress in enhancing its services, which is possible mainly because
of continued government support. Even though Ethiopia is among economically
weak countries, the government has continued providing sustained support to
EMI. This paper examines the evolution, progress, challenges, and opportunities
associated with weather and climate service in Ethiopia. By sharing lessons learned
from Ethiopia’s experiences, this study provides insights into the broader role of
NMHS in Africa and their contribution to sustainable development and disaster
risk management.
