In Africa, critical economic sectors are highly vulnerable to the impacts of seasonal variability and climate change. In such a context, Climate Information Services (CLIs) become a major component of development policies, plans and processes. It is also necessary to include climate information on the news bulletin menu in Africa. It is on this condition that a solid body of science can be built on understanding the impacts of seasonal changes and climates on these vital economic sectors. The ability to anticipate and apprehend the behavior of seasonal cycles can prevent the continent from exposing its agenda for development.

With a well-functioning climate information service, climate-sensitive economic sectors are better protected and more able to adapt to the increasing variability of climate change. It promotes greater agricultural production and other products at the same time as providing greater resilience and improving the standard of living in Africa.

For illustration, updated and accessible climate information on rainfall and wind should help farmers decide not only when to plant and harvest, but also when to dry products, and when to monitor insects and diseases that can ruin crops .

Climate Information Services (CIS) is a new and emerging field of science. It bridges the gap between climate science, policy and practice to adapt decision-making and build resilience to disasters.

The training offered here is the result of a partnership between the Higher School of Information and Communication Sciences and Techniques (ESSTIC) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (CEA). It aims to train 30 media professionals in Cameroon to use the training module designed by ECA in partnership with UNITAR, the African Institute for Development Economics (IDEP) and climate services (WISER). The goal is to build a critical mass of communicators to advocate and sensitize legislators, decision-makers, the private sector, investors and other stakeholders on the issue and role of Climate Information. (IC) and Climate Information Services (CIS) in the development planning process. Upon completion of the training, participants will be able to create a national network of CI and CIS use in development planning, policies and programs.

OBJECTIVES

The overall objective of the training is to equip participating journalists with teaching tools and skills in the collection of climate information and services.

RESULTS

The expected results are:

• Thirty journalists trained;
• A network of journalists sensitized to information and climate services created.