Mariam has been appointed head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency after notable achievements with NORCAP’s Climate Action Accelerator Programme. Her work has enhanced forecast accuracy and integrated gender perspectives into climate governance. She showcased the role of meteorology in creative industries at FESPACO 2025, emphasizing the need for diverse voices in climate action to combat the impacts of climate change effectively.
Mariam has been appointed as the new head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency (ANAM) following her involvement with NORCAP’s Climate Action Accelerator Programme in 2023. Under the mentorship of Emmanuel Poan, she effectively adapted the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to suit the unique climate conditions of Burkina Faso, which substantially enhanced ANAM’s capabilities in delivering climate services.
The collaborative efforts of Mariam and her team led to improved forecast accuracy, allowing for more dependable climate predictions that are critical for agriculture, disaster risk reduction, and water resource management. Mariam remarked, “These improvements have helped decision-makers and communities make better-informed choices, enhancing resilience to climate risks.”
Mariam’s application to NORCAP’s Climate Action Accelerator Programme was noteworthy among numerous candidates. She highlighted ANAM’s participation in FESPACO 2025, Africa’s largest film festival, where a dynamic team of meteorologists and communication experts exhibited the effects of weather on film production and public safety.
She stated, “This initiative expanded ANAM’s reach, demonstrating that meteorology is not just about forecasting but also a crucial tool for risk management, logistics, and creative industries.”
Through her contributions at NORCAP and ANAM, Mariam has effectively connected scientific knowledge with societal needs. She expressed appreciation for the trust shown by Burkinabè authorities and emphasized the importance of integrating gender inclusivity in climate governance. Recognizing the severe impacts of climate change on the Sahel region, she insisted that tackling these complex challenges necessitates diverse viewpoints and strong leadership.
Mariam highlighted the unique challenges faced by women, particularly in rural areas, saying, “Women, especially those in rural communities, experience climate change differently, often facing disproportionate risks while playing a crucial role in adaptation strategies.” She asserts that their empowerment in climate action is vital for fostering a sustainable future, allowing them to emerge as powerful agents of change.
In conclusion, Mariam’s leadership at the National Meteorological Agency marks a significant advancement in climate services, emphasizing the importance of improved forecasting and gender inclusivity in climate governance. Her efforts at FESPACO further showcase the multifaceted role of meteorology in various sectors, reinforcing the need for diverse perspectives in addressing climate challenges. Ultimately, empowering women remains essential for achieving a sustainable future.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
