In a demonstration of regional cooperation and knowledge-sharing, the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has welcomed a delegation from Zimbabwe's Meteorological Services Department (MSD) for a learning exchange aimed at strengthening weather and climate services in the Southern African region.
The visit by MSD officials marks a strategic effort by Zimbabwe to enhance its meteorological capabilities by drawing insights from TMA’s experience and success in advancing weather services through modern technologies, regional and international partnerships, and timely dissemination of accurate weather information.
TMA has earned regional recognition for its robust weather service systems, particularly its integration of cutting-edge technology and its proactive approach to climate adaptation. MSD’s choice to visit TMA reflects the latter's status as a continental benchmark in the field.
Speaking during the visit, TMA officials expressed their enthusiasm for the exchange and reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to strengthening meteorological collaboration across Africa.
They emphasized the importance of regional partnerships in addressing the growing challenges posed by climate change.
“This visit is not only a recognition of our efforts, but also a crucial step in building continental resilience through shared knowledge and technical cooperation,” a TMA spokesperson said.
TMA was established under the Tanzania Meteorological Authority Act No. 2 of 2019, following Government Notice No. 459 dated June 14, 2019. It operates under the Ministry of Transport and is responsible for coordinating, controlling, and delivering meteorological services in the United Republic of Tanzania.
Before the formation of TMA, weather services were managed by the Tanzania Meteorological Agency, created under the Executive Agencies Act, Cap 245 (Revised Edition of 2022).
Prior to that, the Directorate of Meteorology formed in 1977 after the dissolution of the East African Community handled weather monitoring and reporting.
Earlier still, these services were operated by colonial administrations, highlighting the significant evolution of Tanzania’s meteorological institutions over the decades.
TMA also oversees the National Meteorological Training Centre located in Kigoma, which offers professional training for meteorological personnel across the country.
This exchange between Tanzania and Zimbabwe underscores the increasing importance of cross-border cooperation in meteorology, particularly in the face of shared climate-related challenges such as extreme weather, drought, and food security risks.
It also exemplifies a broader trend across Africa toward strengthening institutional capacities to better serve the public and inform policy through scientific weather forecasting and climate analysis.
As both countries look to the future, such collaborations may play a crucial role in enhancing resilience and preparedness throughout the region.