Stakeholders from key sectors in Tanzania met on Monday to review the outlook for the 2026 long rains (Masika) season and provide sector-specific advice, as authorities seek to strengthen the use of weather information in economic and social planning.
The discussions took place during the 25th Masika Season Climate Stakeholders’ Forum, organised by the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) in the capital Dodoma, ahead of the release of the official seasonal forecast expected on Feb. 5.
TMA board chairperson Judge Mshibe Ali Bakari said the forum was critical in translating climate forecasts into practical guidance for sectors such as agriculture, disaster management, water, health and infrastructure.
“The 2025 Vuli season was characterised by prolonged dry spells in many parts of the country, but the forecast accuracy reached 94.1%, which is very high,” Bakari said. “I urge citizens to continue trusting TMA, to follow the information provided and to use it in their daily activities.”
He said discussions on the 2026 Masika rains should closely examine potential impacts and generate concrete recommendations to help sectors prepare in advance and minimise risks.
TMA Director General Ladislaus Changa said stakeholder engagement was central to narrowing the gap between weather warnings and public understanding, noting that the authority was prioritising user-focused climate services.
“In reducing gaps in understanding weather alerts, the Authority has continued to engage stakeholders in the preparation of information that promotes effective use of meteorological services in the country,” Changa said.
Changa, who is also Vice Chairperson of the international panel on climate and atmospheric science, said TMA’s adherence to national and international standards had strengthened Tanzania’s credibility in weather and climate services.
“Through compliance with these standards, Tanzania has been selected to host the Fourth International Conference of World Meteorological Experts in June 2026,” he added.
Stakeholders welcomed the continued collaboration with TMA, saying timely and reliable weather information was essential for planning and protecting lives and property.
“We commend TMA for organising this climate stakeholders’ forum,” said Muhidin Ali Muhidin, acting director at the Disaster Management Commission under the Office of the Second Vice President of Zanzibar. “To carry out our duties effectively, we must have information that supports planning and helps safeguard citizens and their property.”
TMA said the official forecast for the 2026 Masika season will be issued on Feb. 5, providing guidance to government institutions, the private sector and the public ahead of the onset of the rains.
