Mariam Appointed as Head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency

Mariam has been appointed Head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency after successfully implementing the Weather Research and Forecasting model tailored for the country. Her initiatives have improved forecast accuracy, impacting agriculture and disaster management. Mariam emphasizes the importance of gender inclusivity in climate governance, advocating for the representation of women in climate decision-making.

Mariam has recently been appointed the Head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency (ANAM) after joining the Norwegian Capacity (NORCAP) through the Climate Action Accelerator Programme in 2023. Under the mentorship of Emmanuel Poan, she successfully implemented the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, tailoring it specifically to the climatic needs of Burkina Faso.

The combined efforts of Mariam and her team have significantly enhanced ANAM’s capabilities, improving forecast accuracy and ensuring that climate predictions are more reliable and actionable for essential 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 the NORCAP programme was distinctive, setting her apart from numerous other candidates. She proudly noted ANAM’s participation at FESPACO 2025, Africa’s premier film festival, where her team of meteorologists and communications specialists effectively demonstrated the implications of weather on film production, logistics, and public safety.

“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,” she commented. Through her roles at NORCAP and ANAM, Mariam has been pivotal in bridging the divide between scientific research and societal needs.

Expressing her gratitude to the Burkinabè authorities, Mariam emphasized the importance of gender inclusivity within climate governance. She highlighted that Burkina Faso, similar to other Sahel nations, grapples with severe climate change impacts, underscoring the necessity of diverse perspectives and leadership.

“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 stated, asserting that empowering women in climate action is not just beneficial but essential for fostering a sustainable future.

Mariam’s appointment as the Head of ANAM marks a significant advancement for climate services in Burkina Faso, highlighting the role of improved forecasting in decision-making. Her initiatives exemplify the integration of meteorology in various sectors, notably the creative industry. Additionally, Mariam’s call for increased representation of women in climate governance underscores an essential aspect of effective climate action, reinforcing the idea that diverse perspectives are vital in addressing climate challenges.

Original Source: www.zawya.com