The Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL) has formally transferred ownership of 15 automatic weather stations (AWS) to Botswana’s Ministry of Environment and Tourism. This significant handover, a key component of the WeNet project, took place earlier today. Concurrently, SASSCAL is facilitating a three-day training workshop for stakeholders involved in the WeMAST Project Phase 2, designed to reinforce and expand the regional community of practice.
At the event, Professor Nelago Ingola, SASSCAL’s Executive Director, highlighted that these stations represent a fraction of a broader network encompassing 108 AWS units, backed by a €2.9 million investment that includes a comprehensive maintenance warranty.
“In Botswana, the WeNET Project has repaired nine existing AWS and installed six new stations, bringing the total to fifteen,” Professor Ingola declared. “Beyond the hardware, the project has empowered meteorological staff in Botswana and other member states through training in AWS installation, maintenance, and calibration.”
She further noted that the initiative was carried out in partnership with Central Technical Supplies (CTS), the primary contractor overseeing implementation.
“The state-of-the-art Automatic Weather Stations handed over today will provide accurate and timely weather data that is critical for key sectors such as agriculture, aviation, education, research, water, energy, and disaster management,” Ingola emphasized.
She elaborated that, beyond national strategic planning, the data produced by these stations serves as an indispensable resource for the research community, enabling pioneering studies that deepen insights into climate dynamics.
“Importantly, this data also serves as an invaluable tool for students and young scientists, providing them with practical learning opportunities and equipping the next generation with the knowledge and skills to tackle future climate challenges.”
Concluding her remarks, Ingola underscored that this milestone not only fortifies Botswana’s national capacity but also elevates the region’s standing within the framework of the World Meteorological Organization.
Accepting the AWS on behalf of the government, Professor Patricia Kefilwe Mogomotsi commended SASSCAL’s initiative.
“Now it is up to us that the information we get from the stations is understood by people; it is information that can be used to elevate the economy,” she affirmed.
