The IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC), in collaboration with various partners, is set to host the 68th Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF 68) from August 19th to 20th, 2024. This event will take place in a hybrid format, accommodating both in-person and virtual attendance, and aligns with IGAD’s Regional Strategy for Mainstreaming Climate Services in Key Socio-Economic Sectors for Sustainable Development.
Theme: Early Warning for Mitigation of Climate Risks
The forum’s theme, “Early Warning for Mitigation of Climate Risks,” underscores the importance of proactive measures in addressing climate-related challenges. Furthermore, the event aims to unite diverse stakeholders, including climate scientists, researchers, representatives from key socio-economic sectors, governmental and non-governmental organisations, development partners, decision-makers, media personnel, and civil society stakeholders.
Event Schedule and Workshops
Ahead of the main forum, the organisers will conduct a virtual climate prediction development workshop from August 12th to 16th, 2024. Additionally, co-production workshops focusing on crucial sectors such as agriculture, water, energy, health, livestock, media, and disaster risk management will take place on August 19th, 2024.
Objectives of GHACOF 68
The primary objectives of GHACOF 68 are:
- Reflect on the JJAS 2024 Season: Assess the performance and impacts of the June to September (JJAS) 2024 season.
- Present Climate Outlook: Introduce the consolidated objective regional climate outlook for the October to December (OND) 2024 season.
- Discuss Implications: Explore the implications of the OND 2024 climate forecast and appropriate management strategies.
- Foster Regional Interaction: Provide a platform for regional interaction among decision-makers, climate scientists, researchers, users of climate information, and development partners.
- Release Forum Outcomes: Publish the forum’s outcomes and the GHACOF 68 statement.
Key Stakeholders and Partners
GHACOF 68 will involve numerous key stakeholders, including the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) of Eastern Africa, such as:
- Institut Géographique du Burundi
- Agence Météorologique Nationale de Djibouti
- Eritrea Meteorological Service
- Ethiopia Meteorological Institute
- Kenya Meteorological Department
- Rwanda Meteorological Agency
- South Sudan Meteorological Service
- Sudan Meteorological Authority
- Somalia Meteorological Service
- Tanzania Meteorological Authority
- Uganda National Meteorological Authority
In addition, IGAD-affiliated departments, specialised institutions, and partner organisations like the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), the European Union, and the Organisation of the Africa, Caribbean, and Pacific Group of States (OACPS) will also play crucial roles.
Working Language and Participation
The official language for the forum is English. Thus, interested participants from relevant socio-economic sectors, development partners, end-users of climate services, academia, researchers, climate information providers, and humanitarian agencies are encouraged to register on the ICPAC website by August 14th, 2024.
This forum presents a vital opportunity for regional stakeholders to collaborate and effectively develop strategies to mitigate climate risks. In addition, the outcomes of GHACOF 68 are expected to significantly influence climate resilience and sustainable development efforts in the Greater Horn of Africa.
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