The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA), in partnership with Norges Vel and the World Food Programme (WFP), recently held a stakeholder meeting to explore ways of delivering timely and accurate weather information to farmers.
Speaking at the opening, Wilbert Muruke, representing the TMA Director General, said, “TMA will continue working with all partners to ensure weather and climate information is accessible, understandable, and actionable. This will help farmers make informed decisions, strengthen food security, and improve agricultural resilience across Tanzania.”
Muruke emphasized that accurate, user-friendly weather information is essential in mitigating the effects of climate change and boosting productivity in the agriculture sector.
He added that the government’s continued investment in meteorological services has helped achieve over 88% accuracy in national weather forecasts.
The TMA is also adopting modern technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data analytics to enhance early warning systems for agriculture and the wider community.
Ms. Sesilia Jeremia, Manager of Norges Vel Tanzania, said the meeting provided an opportunity to learn how farmers can access timely weather updates, particularly ten-day forecasts, and which affordable, sustainable technologies can support their decision-making.
Farmers, including Mr. Thadeus Mpendakazi from Mbarali, stressed the importance of weather information, noting that it enables them to plan crop selection and manage risks from droughts or excessive rainfall.
The meeting reflects a growing effort by government and development partners to ensure that farmers are better prepared to face climate challenges while securing the nation’s food supply.