Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow: Zambia Introduces Climate Advisory Services
The Government, through the Zambia Meteorological Department, has officially launched the Digital Climate Advisory Services (DCAS), a major step towards transforming climate data into practical guidance for communities and key economic sectors.
Speaking at the launch, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, Douty Chibamba, highlighted the importance of meteorological science in protecting lives, strengthening the economy, and safeguarding the environment.
Dr Chibamba said the new system is designed to convert complex climate data into simple, actionable information for commercial and small-scale farmers, communities, and policymakers. This, he noted, will support better decision-making in agriculture and disaster preparedness.
He warned that Zambia, like many countries, is increasingly experiencing the impacts of climate variability and change, including extreme heat, floods, droughts, and erratic rainfall patterns.
Dr Chibamba called on the private sector, researchers, and the general public to support and utilise the Digital Climate Advisory Services, describing investment in meteorological services as both a humanitarian necessity and an economic imperative.
During the event, held alongside the commemoration of World Meteorological Day on 23 March 2026, he paid tribute to meteorological professionals, describing them as “silent guardians” of national safety and resilience.
The 2026 theme, “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow”, highlights the need for improved weather and climate observation systems to better prepare for future risks.
Dr Chibamba cited the 2025/2026 rainfall season as a clear example of climate challenges, noting that La Niña conditions have led to above-normal rainfall and severe flooding in districts such as Lundazi, Lumezi, and Monze. The floods have displaced families, damaged infrastructure, and destroyed crops.
He stressed that accurate weather forecasting remains the country’s first line of defence against such disasters.
