Climate Information Services (CIS): A Vital Tool for Africa's Climate Resilience
Fredrick Kayusi *
Department of Environmental Sciences, School of Environmental and Earth Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya.
Srinivas Kasulla
Arka BRENStech Private Limited, Gurugram, Haryana, India.
S J Malik
Arka BRENStech Private Limited, Gurugram, Haryana, India.
Petros Chavula
African Centre of Excellence for Climate-Smart Agriculture and Biodiversity Conservation, Haramaya University, Dire-Dawa, Ethiopia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Climate Information Services (CIS) serve as vital assets for Africa in navigating the intricate challenges of climate change. They offer prompt, reliable, and easily understandable climate information, enabling individuals, local communities, and organizations to make wise decisions that foster resilience and adaptation to the shifting climate. These services play a pivotal role in minimizing the detrimental impacts of climate change, thereby promoting sustainable growth throughout the continent. Utilizing an extensive research approach encompassing various techniques, our findings demonstrate that CIS positively impacts agricultural yield and economic gains, yet simultaneously augments climate change risk and vulnerability, while boosting resilience. The study underscores the escalating implementation and dissemination of CIS across various African territories. Despite the beneficial influence of CIS, the investigation exposed hurdles in capacity development and gender imbalances. The study's findings underscore the pivotal role that CIS plays in promoting sustainable development in Africa. To fully capitalize on these advantages, it is imperative to allocate strategic investments in infrastructure, capacity development, and information dissemination. For example, enhancing internet access in isolated regions, educating local professionals in climate science, and amplifying public awareness regarding the significance of CIS can substantially enhance their efficiency. Furthermore, nurturing collaborations at national and regional levels can help bridge existing disparities and guarantee that CIS reach those who require them most. Through addressing these challenges and implementing the recommended strategies, Africa can realize the full potential of climate information services. This will not only strengthen the continent's climate resilience but also promote economic growth and improve the livelihoods of millions of people. Ultimately, the successful integration of the CIS into Africa's development agenda will contribute to a more sustainable and climate-resilient future for the continent.
Keywords: Climate information services, CIS, climatic risks, land degradation, climate resilience, climate change