Rwanda has constructed meteorology laboratories to improve efficiency in collecting and analyzing weather data.
The country aims to enhance its understanding of weather patterns, river flows, and air quality to better forecast extreme events and respond to natural disasters. By regulating and maintaining a network of weather stations, hydrological sensors, and air quality monitoring devices, Rwanda is working towards building a resilient and environmentally sustainable future.
Previously, calibration of sensors had to be done outside of Rwanda, resulting in potential damage and high transportation costs. The new laboratories feature state-of-the-art instruments and a team of skilled scientists and technicians.
According to Aimable Gahigi, Director General of Rwanda Meteorology Agency, these meteorology sensors will be essential in advancing knowledge and prediction in the field.
“In the past, we faced difficulties with calibrating sensors outside Rwanda, which made them prone to damage and incurred high transportation fees,” He explains.
Claudine Uwera, Minister of State for Environment, emphasizes the importance of accurately predicting and preparing for environmental challenges.
“This calibration center represents a giant leap forward in our ability to monitor, predict, and respond to meteorological, hydrological, and air quality phenomena.” She states.
Deputy Director General at REMA Faustin Munyazikwiye (L), State Minister at the ministry of environment (c) Claudine Uwera during a guided tour of the newly launched centre of calibration laboratories. Courtesy
She further adds, “In an era where climate change poses an existential threat to our planet, this calibration center is our commitment to understanding and mitigating its effects. By ensuring the accuracy of our monitoring instruments, we pave the way for more precise climate models, which are essential for informed climate policymaking.”
The Minister of Environment Rwanda stresses that accurate climate projections are crucial for the efficiency of proposed adaptation strategies and the reduction of losses and damages. She highlights the need for climate models to accurately represent local climate conditions.
Overall, the construction of these meteorology laboratories in Rwanda represents a significant step towards improving data accuracy, enhancing decision-making in various sectors, and addressing the challenges posed by climate change.