The 71st Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF 71) opened today in Nairobi, bringing together climate scientists, policymakers, researchers, development partners, and private sector actors to address the region’s growing vulnerability to climate extremes.
Organised by the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) in collaboration with the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) and partners, the two-day meeting is themed “Climate Services for Bridging the Early Warning Gap Together.” The forum will review the June to September 2025 season, present the regional climate outlook for October to December (OND) 2025, and discuss strategies for managing climate-related risks.
Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Dr. Debora Barasa, underscored the urgency of regional cooperation in tackling the climate crisis.
“The Greater Horn of Africa is becoming increasingly vulnerable to climate extremes, with communities facing erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts, and devastating floods. Addressing these risks requires shared knowledge, timely information, and a united regional approach,” she said.
IGAD Deputy Executive Secretary, H.E. Mohamed Abdi Ware, echoed the call for collaboration, stressing the importance of climate information in saving lives and protecting livelihoods.
“When climate information is timely, reliable, and accessible, it enables communities to plan better. But when it fails to reach the last mile, the cost is counted in human suffering. Resilience cannot be built in silos,” he said.
Acting Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, Edward Muriuki, highlighted the role of early warning systems in reducing disaster impacts.
“The effectiveness of early warning systems depends on our collective action. It is our responsibility to ensure that warnings reach everyone, including the most vulnerable communities,” he noted, reaffirming KMD’s commitment to accurate and timely weather services.
For over 28 years, GHACOF has provided a platform for linking climate science with policy and action across the IGAD and EAC regions. This year’s forum is expected to chart ways of strengthening resilience through enhanced early warning systems and user-driven climate services.