Mariam has been appointed as the head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency, having previously joined NORCAP’s Climate Action Accelerator Programme. She has enhanced ANAM’s climate services, fostering better decision-making in agriculture and disaster management. Mariam highlights the importance of women’s roles in climate action and expresses gratitude for the support from Burkinabè authorities in fostering gender inclusivity in climate governance.
Mariam, formerly an expert at NORCAP, has been appointed as the new head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency (ANAM). Having joined NORCAP in 2023 through the Climate Action Accelerator Programme, she was guided by Emmanuel Poan, and successfully validated the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to suit the unique climate conditions of Burkina Faso.
The collaborative efforts of Mariam and her team have significantly enhanced ANAM’s technical capabilities in climate services. Their work has improved forecast accuracy, rendering climate predictions more reliable, which is essential for sectors such as agriculture, disaster risk reduction, and water resource management. Mariam stated, “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 distinguished her from numerous candidates. She considers ANAM’s participation in FESPACO 2025, the largest film festival in Africa, a notable milestone. With a team of meteorologists and communication professionals, they demonstrated the influence of weather on film production, logistics, and public safety through an engaging stand.
“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,” Mariam emphasized. Her work exemplifies an effort to connect scientific knowledge with societal needs.
Mariam expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Burkinabè authorities for their trust and for their dedication to incorporating gender inclusivity in climate governance. She acknowledged the complex impacts of climate change faced by Burkina Faso and highlighted the importance of diverse perspectives and strong leadership.
She remarked, “Women, especially those in rural communities, experience climate change differently, often facing disproportionate risks while playing a crucial role in adaptation strategies. Yet, their voices remain underrepresented in climate science, meteorology, and decision-making spaces.” Mariam believes that empowering women in climate action is vital for securing a sustainable future.
Mariam’s appointment as the head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency marks a pivotal development in strengthening climate services in the region. Her commitment to gender inclusivity and bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and practical applications highlights the essential role of diverse perspectives in addressing climate challenges. By empowering women in climate action, a more sustainable future can be achieved for all.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
