* Intensive consultations were held from May 19-30, 2025 that included stakeholder engagement as a crucial component of the plan’s development
* This is contained in 2nd edition of Zanyengo e-Newsletter; https://www.metmalawi.gov.mw/publications/the-zanyengo-e-newsletter-2nd-edition/
* DCCMS’ publication that highlights key activities, milestones, and collaborations to advance public weather services and climate resilience efforts
By Duncan Mlanjira
The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS) is in the final stages of developing its Strategic Plan for 2025-2029, to serve as a guiding document for its service delivery and institutional development over the next five years.
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This is reported in the 2nd edition of Zanyengo e-Newsletter; https://www.metmalawi.gov.mw/publications/the-zanyengo-e-newsletter-2nd-edition/, DCCMS’ publication that highlights key activities, milestones, and collaborations.
The strategic plan has been supported by the World Bank’s Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS) Malawi Project, whose development process is being led by a consultant team consisting led by Alice Soares and Vincent Amelie — working closely with DCCMS leadership, including Deputy Director, Charles Vanya and Chief Meteorologist, Hussein Milanzi.
The Zanyengo e-Newsletter reports that intensive consultations were held from May 19-30, 2025 that included stakeholder engagement as a crucial component of the plan’s development.
“This included an internal session at the DCCMS headquarters in Blantyre to gather staff input on institutional priorities, as well as academic consultations with the Malawi University of Science & Technology (MUST) in Thyolo and the University of Malawi (UNIMA) in Zomba,” says the report.
“Broader sector perspectives were obtained through consultations with the World Bank offices in Lilongwe. The next steps involve a final review by DCCMS management, followed by the official launch of the completed Strategic Plan.”
The e-newsletter further says the inclusive process “ensures the plan aligns with national development goals while effectively addressing evolving climate challenges and the needs of its users [and that] the finalised document will direct DCCMS’ operations and partnerships through 2029”.
Some of the articles contained in the Zanyengo e-Newsletter
Launched in March, Zanyengo e-Newsletter highlights “valuable insights into DCCMS’ continued commitment to serving Malawians through science-based weather and climate information — from capacity-building initiatives and stakeholder engagements to advances in public weather services and climate resilience efforts”.
It its preface by DCCMS Director, Dr. Lucy Mtilatila welcomes the public for the 2nd edition as it highlights “significant strides made in establishing the Malawi Meteorological Society (MAMESO) — a vital platform that will facilitate knowledge sharing, foster collaborative research, and drive innovation within the field of meteorology”.
“Recognising that climate is paramount for sustainable development, the DCCMS has been actively developing the Zanyengo App. This innovative application provides location-specific weather information to empower various sectors with the climate information they need to make informed decisions.
“Furthermore, driven by the crucial ‘Early Warning for All’ initiative, the DCCMS has been strategically reorganising its efforts to ensure the ambitious 2027 target for universal early warning coverage is achieved.”
Director Mtilatila
Mtilatila further says is also reporting on the continued progress of CREWS project, “which is providing invaluable support to the department in areas such as strengthening legislation and enhancing climate service delivery”.
“The procurement of weather radar with support from the World Bank is another significant milestone in responding to early warning for all initiative.
The e-newsletter also highlights recent launch of the Agricultural Resilience through Climate Services Programme (ARCS) project, which Mtilatila says “reinforces the DCCMS’ commitment to delivering targeted climate services specifically for the agricultural sector in Malawi”.
“We invite you to delve into the articles within this newsletter and discover the impactful work being done,” she entices the public. “We are confident that you will find this edition as informative and engaging as the first, and we appreciate your continued partnership in building a climate-resilient future for Malawi.”
Mwera winds update
Meanwhile, in this morning’s weather update, the DCCMS reports that “a strong southeasterly air mass is expected to generate high and potentially dangerous water waves on Lake Malawi and other water bodies from tomorrow, June 29 to Thursday, July 3”.
”The waves may capsize small boats, disrupt lake activities such as fishing, and sailing, and could lead to drowning and loss of life.”
The instructions are to:
* avoid travelling on lakes, especially in small boats, during this period;
* fishers advised to postpone fishing trips until conditions improve;
* secure boats and equipment near the shoreline to prevent damage;
* report any emergencies to local authorities or disaster response teams; and
* stay alert and follow updates from DCCMS.
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