On December 1, the Dominica Meteorological Service (DMS) in partnership with the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH), hosted its inaugural National Climate Outlook Forum in Rosseau, Dominica.

Supported by the Intra-ACP Climate Services and Related Applications (ClimSA) Programme, this landmark event is part of ongoing efforts to implement the World Meteorological Services (WMO) Global Framework for Climate Services Programme at the national level. The forum aims to provide valuable insights into the weather patterns, climate change projections, and potential impacts on various climate sensitive sectors to allow for the development of strategies and adaptation measures to mitigate the effects of climate change and variability, and promote sustainable development.

“This inaugural National Climate Outlook Forum represents an important step towards shaping the climate resilience agenda for Dominica through addressing the challenges posed by climate change. By bringing together key stakeholders, we can collectively work towards building a resilient and sustainable future for our nation," said Ithoma James, Senior Meteorologist at the Dominica Meteorological Service.

Adrian Trotman, Head of the Regional Climate Centre for the Caribbean at the CIMH highlighted the significance of collaborative efforts stating “The National Climate Outlook Forum provides an opportunity for collective action and knowledge-sharing among climate scientists and stakeholders. By fostering collaboration, effective strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate related risks faced by Dominica can be developed. This forum demonstrates Dominica's proactive stance to addressing climate challenges.”

Bringing remarks on behalf of EU Ambassador Malgorzata WASILEWSKA, Donna Gittens, Programme Manager of the European Union Delegation to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean commented on the long-standing partnership between the European Union (EU) and Dominica. She expressed support for Dominica stating: “The European Union recognizes the importance of regional and national forums in addressing climate challenges. We are pleased to support Dominica in this endeavor and look forward to the outcomes that will contribute to the broader global climate resilience agenda." She also congratulated CIMH and commended the ongoing work by the Institute to strengthen capacities to address the impact of climate change. She remarked on how these efforts build on other ongoing collaborations in the region between the organization and the EU in building national and regional level climate resilience.

Sherri Frederick, Programme Manager of the Intra ACP ClimSA Programme at CIMH, underscored the impact of the National Climate Outlook Forum stating: "ClimSA is proud to support Dominica in hosting this forum. By providing accurate and accessible climate information, the National Climate Outlook Forum will enable decision-makers at all levels to make informed choices and implement appropriate adaptation measures. This forum aligns with our commitment to improving climate services in the region to contribute to a more resilient Caribbean."

The first National Climate Outlook Forum in Dominica brought together more than 30 key stakeholders, experts, and policymakers in the agriculture and food security, water, and health sectors, and meteorology to address critical issues related to the impacts of climate change and climate variability on the island’s key climate sensitive sectors. Some of the stakeholders in attendance included Jo-Anne

Commodore, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security and Home Affairs; Dr Cédric Van Meerbeeck, Co-leader of the WMO Regional Adviser IV Expert Team on Climate Services for British Caribbean Territories; and The Honourable Cassanni Laville, Minister for Health, Wellness and Social Services who officially launched the Intra ACP ClimSA Caribbean Programme’s Climate and Health agenda in Dominica, the target country for climate and health under the Programme.

Support for the Caribbean Intra-ACP ClimSA Programme is provided by the global Intra-ACP ClimSA Programme, an initiative funded by the European Union (EU). The programme aims to improve the production, access to and use of climate information, services, and applications to support evidence-based decision-making across African, Caribbean, and Pacific states.