DODOMA: PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa announced yesterday that the government will procure 11 automatic weather stations as part of ongoing major investments to enhance meteorological services.
Speaking during the official launch of the Systematic Observation Financing Facility (SOFF) Project in Dodoma, Mr Majaliwa noted that the stations will contribute data to the Global Observing System.
The SOFF project, spearheaded by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), aims to improve the availability and exchange of global climate data.
“The government, in supporting the implementation of the SOFF project, has allocated funds to purchase 11 automatic weather stations. These stations, which operate independently, will contribute data to the Global Observing System,” the Prime Minister said during the ceremony.
He highlighted the government’s significant investments in the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA), including infrastructure development for weather observation and capacity building for staff.
“These investments include the purchase of seven weather radars, the expansion of the National Meteorological College, and the modernisation of meteorological equipment by phasing out mercury-based tools, in line with the Minamata Convention,” he added.
The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of the SOFF project in providing accurate climate data, facilitating global meteorological information exchange and strengthening resilience against extreme weather events.
Mr Majaliwa revealed that the government is contributing over 4 million US dollars (equivalent to 10.08bn/-) in-kind support for the project, while SOFF will contribute 13.9m/- (equivalent to 35.176bn/-).
“These efforts demonstrate the government’s strong commitment to improving meteorological infrastructure,” he said, stressing that the project will enhance weather forecasting and early warning systems to safeguard lives and support sustainable development.
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The Prime Minister also noted Tanzania’s pioneering role, being the first East African country to establish a leading meteorological centre with advanced forecasting infrastructure.
“We pledge to utilise this opportunity effectively and uphold global meteorological standards,” he stated.
He directed TMA to prioritise improving observation networks in underserved areas and ensuring accessibility to meteorological data to support economic and social activities across the country.
“Employees working on this project must ensure integrity and professionalism to achieve the intended national benefits. Coordinators must adhere to the strategic implementation plan to complete the project efficiently and on time,” he instructed.
Acting Director General of TMA, Dr Ladislaus Chang’a, commended the government for its support and highlighted TMA’s leading role in Africa.
“TMA is one of the top meteorological institutions in Africa, widely relied upon by WMO for technical guidance, early warning protocols and numerical weather prediction efforts,” he said.
Dr Chang’a explained that Tanzania is among the 26 countries selected in the first phase of SOFF implementation.
The project, currently in the investment phase, will enhance infrastructure for observation, data processing and dissemination while equipping meteorological experts with advanced skills.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative, Mr Shigeki Komatsubara, highlighted SOFF’s emphasis on sustainability beyond infrastructure development.
“UNDP is committed to supporting the successful implementation of this critical initiative. SOFF is a beacon of hope for a more resilient Tanzania and a testament to our collective commitment to leaving no one behind,” he said.
Earlier, SOFF Secretariat Director Markus Repnik praised Tanzania for its significant investments in TMA and pledged continued collaboration to strengthen weather observation systems.
