Over the years, meteorological collaborations have been an integral part of the cooperation between China and Africa. This significant partnership has been made possible through China’s expansion of its Fengyun satellite services to over 30 African countries, significantly enhancing Africa’s meteorological capabilities. These services have provided meteorological data that have served a critical role in disaster management across the continent.
The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) spearheads this project, representing a crucial advancement in enhancing Africa’s capacity to forecast weather and tackle natural disasters. This is ahead of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which focuses on cooperation and holds immense potential for future collaboration. This key event will spark discussions and initiatives that could further enhance Africa’s meteorological capabilities. FOCAS will take place from September 4 to 6 in Beijing and involve leaders and stakeholders from China and Africa.
Providing Africa Access to Satellite Data
Since 2018, the CMA has been expanding access to Fengyun satellite data across Africa. This initiative has reached numerous organisations and institutions in Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, and Ethiopia. A significant development in this programme has been establishing a dedicated FY-2H satellite direct receiving station in Mozambique, substantially enhancing its meteorological monitoring capabilities.
The project has seen considerable engagement from African partners. Currently, 36 users across the continent have placed 416 orders through the Fengyun data website, delivering more than 687.8 gigabytes of satellite data. This information primarily originates from the Fengyun-2, Fengyun-3, and Fengyun-4 satellite series.
In addition to raw data access, the CMA has promoted the adoption of software platforms to improve data utilisation. These include the international version of Fengyun Earth and the Satellite Weather Application Platform (SWAP). Thus, 24 African countries, including Morocco, Nigeria and Tanzania, have accessed the SWAP platform, while six nations, such as Algeria and Ghana, have utilised the Fengyun Earth platform.
Strengthening Emergency Response
In the same period, the CMA also implemented the “Emergency Support Mechanism for International Users of Fengyun Meteorological Satellites in Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.” This initiative has involved 12 African countries, including Algeria, Mauritius, and Nigeria. The satellite data-sharing mechanism has demonstrated critical value in addressing severe weather events and natural disasters across Africa. Since its implementation, the system has been activated on 11 separate occasions, providing essential data and monitoring reports for various emergencies, including typhoons, floods, wildfires, and episodes of heavy rainfall.
In addition, the agency has facilitated the transfer of 5.1 terabytes of Fengyun satellite data to 24 African nations. This significant data provision has been achieved through the International Charter on Space and Major Disasters, a global cooperative effort to leverage space-based assets for disaster management. This improved access to critical information has the potential to save lives, protect infrastructure, and mitigate the economic impacts of severe weather events.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
Beyond providing data and emergency assistance, the CMA cultivates stronger relationships with African nations through educational initiatives. Notably, the “Belt and Road” Meteorological Visiting Scholar Programme recently welcomed experts from Ethiopia, Seychelles and Tanzania for a year-long academic exchange in China. This is a joint effort with China’s Ministry of Education.
Moreover, the Fengyun Satellite International User Conference has seen active participation from African scholars, including those from Seychelles, Namibia, and Ghana. This engagement further illustrates the growing collaboration between China and Africa in meteorological science.
Its Impact on Africa
Weather forecasting and monitoring remain critical priorities for African nations. With African satellites dedicated to these services progressing over the years, Fengyun satellites provide critical data to enhance decision-making and solve these needs. Additionally, this allows Africa to enhance its disaster preparedness and response. As climate-related challenges continue to escalate globally, such collaborative efforts are becoming increasingly vital for building resilience in vulnerable regions.
Additionally, African nations can leverage key collaborations, technological advancements, and expertise from China to enhance their capabilities further.
In conclusion, the CMA’s multifaceted effort, encompassing satellite data sharing, disaster response support, and scientific exchanges, demonstrates China’s dedication to enhancing Africa’s weather forecasting capabilities and contributing to global disaster resilience.
Source: https://spaceinafrica.com/2024/09/03/chinas-role-in-developing-africas-meteorology-through-fengyun-satellites/
