Strengthening Collaboration with Mozambique

Maputo, November 8, 2023: The two meteorological institutes signed a cooperation agreement on institutional collaboration this Wednesday. INAM and MET Norway will collaborate through the SAREPTA project, with the goal of delivering high-quality hazard warnings and seasonal forecasts. The name SAREPTA symbolizes a jar that never runs empty, reflecting the comprehensive coverage of weather data for millions of global locations updated every 6 hours.

Significant national media attention

The signing ceremony occurred at the premises of Caminho de Ferros de Moçambique (CFM – the Mozambique Railways Company) during the advisory council meeting. Mozambique's Minister of Transport, His Excellency Mateus Magala, presided over the ceremony alongside more than 50 members of the Advisory Council. The event garnered extensive media attention, with a strong presence from the national press. The proceedings received substantial coverage, both on the evening of the event and in the newspapers the following day. 

"It is good to get support for the project from high up. I hope it opens doors and brings more resources to our partners," says climate researcher Rasmus Benestad at the Norwegian Meteorological Institute.

Climate change is causing extreme weather events to occur more frequently, making accurate and timely forecasts essential. Early warning provides crucial information for preparedness and response, allowing authorities to adapt and implement measures in a timely manner. Investing in robust systems enhances resilience and contributes to recovery after disasters, thus constituting a critical component of the government's efforts against climate impacts. As highlighted by the Norwegian Ambassador, Haakon Gram-Johannessen, meteorological services can save lives and ensure our survival.

Enhancing resilience to climate change

"We recognize and encourage the implementation of this partnership between the National Institute of Meteorology and the Meteorological Institute, as it strengthens the country's resilience to climate change," said Mozambique's Minister of Transport and Communication, Mateus Magala, in his speech.

As part of the partnership, MET Norway provides advanced digital and open tools for early warning and weather forecasts, ensuring the rapid dissemination of crucial information. These tools include wind, waves, trajectories, and marine pollution, contributing to strengthening the capacity for marine forecasts. By integrating INAM's ground data with diverse datasets, MET contributes to informed decision-making and proactive adaptation measures for climate change.

In line with the World Meteorological Organization's Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS), the initiative leverages diverse datasets, including global climate models, to support decision-making and risk management. The project also focuses on ocean forecasts, ensuring accurate predictions of waves, storm surges, and offshore wind conditions.

Additionally, through the Sarepta-Mozambique project, MET Norway introduces OpenDrift, an open tool for simulations of marine pollution and search and rescue operations, thereby enhancing the ability to address environmental challenges. These initiatives reflect MET's commitment to promoting more precise and reliable weather services, ensuring the safety and well-being of communities.

The collaboration represents a significant leap in strengthening Mozambique's resilience to climate challenges. By improving weather forecasts and promoting proactive measures, the partnership aims to make a positive impact on climate change adaptation.