Mariam has been appointed as the head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency after joining NORCAP’s Climate Action Accelerator Programme in 2023. Her initiatives improved climate services’ accuracy and highlighted women’s essential role in climate adaptation. She aims to bridge the gap between science and society while promoting inclusivity in climate governance.
Mariam, the new head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency (ANAM), joined NORCAP in 2023 via the Climate Action Accelerator Programme. Under her mentor, Emmanuel Poan, Mariam effectively validated and operationalized the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to suit Burkina Faso’s specific climatic conditions. Their collective efforts significantly enhanced ANAM’s capabilities in providing climate services, resulting in more accurate forecasts and actionable climate predictions for agriculture and disaster management.
Mariam emphasizes that these improvements have empowered decision-makers and communities, facilitating better-informed decisions to increase resilience against climate risks. Her application to the Climate Action Accelerator Programme was notably impressive, setting her apart from numerous candidates.
At FESPACO 2025, Africa’s largest film festival, Mariam envisions ANAM’s engaging presence as a milestone. By assembling a team of meteorologists and communication experts, they highlighted the intersection of weather with film production and logistics. This initiative showcased that meteorology transcends mere forecasting, serving as an invaluable resource for risk management and various industries.
Through her endeavors with NORCAP and ANAM, Mariam has effectively bridged the divide between scientific understanding and societal needs. She expresses her gratitude to Burkinabè authorities for their trust and commitment to gender inclusivity in climate governance. Mariam underscores the significant impacts of climate change felt by varied demographics, particularly women in rural areas, who often face unique challenges yet contribute significantly to adaptation strategies.
Mariam advocates for the empowerment of women as vital change agents in climate action, stating that their involvement is imperative for ensuring a sustainable future.
In conclusion, Mariam’s leadership at Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency marks a transformative step towards enhancing climate services and governance. Through her work with NORCAP, she not only strengthened technical capacities but also underscored the essential role of women in climate adaptation and decision-making. By bridging science and society, Mariam advocates for a comprehensive approach to tackle climate challenges, aiming for an inclusive and resilient future.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
