The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) in collaboration with the Kenya Red Cross Society, the World Food Programme and United Nations Development Program have organized the 9th Session of the National Climate Outlook Forum in Nakuru county from 26th to 28th August 2024.
Speaking during the opening session, the Director for KMD Dr. David Gikungu said the National Climate Outlook Forum (NCOF) is a program focused on providing seasonal climate forecasts and outlooks. It is organized by the Kenya Meteorological Department in collaboration with various stakeholders, including climate scientists, meteorologists, and representatives from different sectors that are affected by climate conditions.
He stated that the key aspects of NCOF include seasonal forecasts that produce outlooks for temperature, precipitation, and other climate variables on a seasonal basis, noting that these forecasts help various sectors prepare for potential weather and climate impacts.
Overall, Dr. Gikungu said the NCOF plays a crucial role in enhancing the nation’s preparedness for climate variability and change by providing timely and actionable climate information.
The Director revealed that the Meteorological department will on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 announce the expected weather conditions for the short rains season (October to December 2024), which are useful for national planning.
Dr. Gikungu observed that they have realized the importance of climate information dissemination to a wider audience and the aim of NCOF is to improve the communication and understanding of climate forecast among users which includes providing tools, resources, and guidance on how to interpret and use the seasonal outlooks, which in future will be given on a monthly basis.
Emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagements, he observed that the forum brings together experts from different fields to discuss and review climate data and projections.
This collaborative approach helps ensure that the forecasts are accurate and relevant to the needs of different sectors, such as agriculture, water management, and disaster preparedness. Also, the forum will have a segment to engage users of climate information.
By Veronica Bosibori
