Ghana Meteorological Agency Marks World Meteorological Day with Focus on Inclusivity
The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) commemorated World Meteorological Day on March 24, 2025, by engaging persons with disabilities to promote inclusive communication in early warning systems. This year's theme, “Closing the Early Warning Gap Together,” underscored the need to ensure that vulnerable groups are not left behind in disaster preparedness and response efforts.
In his address, the Director-General of GMet, Dr. Eric Asuman, emphasized that early warning messages are only effective when they are accessible, understandable, and actionable for all, including persons with disabilities. He highlighted the importance of diverse communication channels such as sign language, braille, audio alerts, and visual cues to accommodate different needs. Dr. Asuman reaffirmed GMet's commitment to collaborating with disability-focused organizations to strengthen inclusive early warning systems.
Representing the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, Alfred Nii Nortey, Director of Finance and Administration, commended GMet for its efforts in enhancing early warning accessibility. He stated, “By engaging persons with disabilities, we are not only acknowledging their right to access vital meteorological information but also underscoring the importance of ensuring that all forms of communication whether through visual, auditory, or other means are inclusive, accessible, and effective for everyone.”
He also noted the Ministry's commitment to supporting GMet's long-term objectives, including the operationalization of the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) to improve the efficiency of early warning systems in Ghana.
The event served as a platform to gather concerns from persons with disabilities regarding how extreme weather events, such as floods, affect them. Participants shared their challenges in receiving timely warnings and suggested ways to improve accessibility. The engagement marks a significant step toward making Ghana’s weather forecasting services more inclusive, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of ability, have the information needed to stay safe.
©️GMet Communications
