Regional Climate Experts Meet for GHACOF 72 Ahead of Long Rains
News Updated: 26 January 2026 12:03 EAT
The 72nd Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF 72), led Principal Secretary Festus Ng’eno
The 72nd Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF 72) is underway, bringing together climate scientists, policymakers and development partners from across the region to deliberate on seasonal climate outlooks ahead of the March–May 2026 rainfall season.
The forum is being held under the theme Advancing Climate Services for Resilient Communities and Sustainable Development in the Greater Horn of Africa, underscoring efforts to strengthen the use of climate information in planning and decision-making.
GHACOF 72 is presided over by Principal Secretary Festus Ng’eno and convened by the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre, which regularly brings together regional experts to develop consensus-based seasonal climate forecasts.
Discussions are centred on the March–May period, commonly known as the long rains, a critical season for agriculture, water availability and food security in the Greater Horn of Africa.
Participants are reviewing climate predictions, risk assessments and sector-specific advisories aimed at supporting preparedness in agriculture, disaster risk management, health, energy and infrastructure.
The forum is also assessing recent climate trends and extreme weather events, highlighting growing climate risks and the importance of early warning and early action systems.
The outcomes of GHACOF 72 are expected to inform national planning, humanitarian preparedness and development strategies, strengthening climate resilience and supporting sustainable development across the region.
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD