The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening weather and climate observation systems in the country through the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF) project.
The commitment was made during the fifth meeting of the SOFF Project Coordination Committee held at Morena Hotel in Dodoma, which brought together experts and key stakeholders to review progress and set priorities for 2026.
The meeting focused on assessing the implementation of the SOFF project, reviewing the 2026 Annual Work Plan, and identifying strategic interventions aimed at improving weather data collection, forecasting systems, and overall climate services in Tanzania.
Participants also discussed monitoring and evaluation frameworks to ensure effective implementation and accountability in all project activities.
Communication and public awareness strategies for 2026 were also reviewed, with emphasis on improving public understanding of weather and climate information.
The committee further examined key decisions and recommendations from the third SOFF Project Executive Committee meeting held in April 2026, ensuring that all agreed actions are being implemented effectively.
Speaking during the opening session, the co-chairs of the committee, Dr. Paschal Waniha of Tanzania Meteorological Authority and Dr. Abbas Kitogo of United Nations Development Programme, stressed the importance of strong coordination among implementing partners to ensure timely and effective delivery of project activities.
They said the SOFF project plays an important role in improving Tanzania’s capacity to monitor weather patterns and respond to climate-related challenges, which directly affect key sectors such as agriculture, water, transport, and disaster management.
The co-chairs added that continued cooperation between institutions is essential in ensuring that planned activities are completed on time and that the project delivers meaningful results to citizens.
Stakeholders at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to improving coordination, accelerating implementation of planned activities, and strengthening efficiency in project delivery.
They agreed that better teamwork and information sharing will enhance the impact of the project.
By the end of the meeting, participants expressed confidence that continued collaboration between TMA, UNDP, and other partners will strengthen Tanzania’s weather observation systems and improve the delivery of climate services for the benefit of citizens and the economy.
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