Reliable weather and climate data save lives. For Ethiopia—where floods, droughts, and extreme weather increasingly affect livelihoods—strengthening national observation and early warning systems is both an urgent priority and a long-term investment in resilience.

As part of this effort, a high-level delegation from the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute (EMI), supported by UNDP, undertook a capacity-building and experience-sharing mission to China in 2025. The visit brought together Ethiopian and Chinese experts to exchange practical knowledge on modern meteorological systems, forecasting, and early warning services—advancing Ethiopia’s implementation of the Global Basic Observing Network (GBON) with support from the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF).

Why meteorological observations matter

Meteorological observations form the backbone of weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and early warning systems—both nationally and globally. As a member of the World Meteorological Organization, Ethiopia contributes data that feeds into regional and global forecasting models, while also relying on those same systems to anticipate and respond to hazards at home.

Over the past decade, Ethiopia has invested significantly in modernizing its observation infrastructure. However, gaps in station operation, maintenance, calibration, staffing, and data transmission have constrained the full potential of these investments.

Through SOFF’s USD 9.9 million support, Ethiopia is now upgrading and expanding its national observation network, strengthening data systems, and building institutional capacity—laying the foundation for more reliable forecasts and more effective early warning services.

Learning from China’s experience

China’s meteorological system is among the most advanced in the world, combining large-scale observation networks with strong operational procedures, digital systems, and applied research. Building on a 2023 cooperation agreement between EMI and the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), the mission focused on hands-on learning and practical exchange.

Ethiopian experts engaged directly with CMA counterparts on topics ranging from station operation and calibration to forecasting workflows, ICT systems, and the use of artificial intelligence in meteorology. The delegation also visited national and regional operational centres, research institutions, and internationally recognized calibration and training facilities.

A particular focus of discussion was the jointly developed Multi-Hazard Alert Zero-gap and Universal (MAZU) Early Warning System, tailored for Ethiopia and scheduled for installation in early 2026. The system is expected to significantly enhance the timeliness and reach of early warnings across multiple hazards.

Building long-term partnerships

Beyond technical learning, the mission reinforced the importance of sustained South–South cooperation. Ethiopian and Chinese counterparts explored opportunities for continued collaboration in training, joint research, forecasting services, and next-generation observation technologies, as well as structured knowledge exchange under regional and global scientific initiatives.

Representatives from both sides emphasized that meteorological cooperation is not only a technical endeavour, but a strategic contribution to sustainable development, climate resilience, and regional stability.

UNDP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ethiopia in translating these partnerships into lasting institutional capacity, aligning national efforts with global initiatives, under a broader climate resilience agenda outlined within the new Country Programme Document (2025–2030).

Looking ahead

By the end of the mission, Ethiopian experts returned with practical insights to strengthen station operations, improve standard operating procedures, and enhance forecasting and early warning services. Just as importantly, they established professional networks that will support continued collaboration and learning.

Through SOFF, GBON, and strengthened South–South partnerships, Ethiopia is taking concrete steps toward a more robust, sustainable, and globally connected meteorological system that supports early action, protects livelihoods, and contributes to climate-resilient development at home and beyond.