First National Climate Outlook Forum to be Hosted in Antigua and Barbuda

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service (ABMS) in collaboration with the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH), will host its inaugural National Climate Outlook Forum (NCOF) on June 4, 2024, at the Trade Winds Hotel in Saint John’s, Antigua, under the theme: “Enhancing Climate Resilience and Early Warning Systems”.

Supported by the Intra-ACP Climate Services and Related Applications (ClimSA) programme, the ABMS NCOF represents a significant step forward in implementing the World Meteorological Services (WMO) Global Framework for Climate Services Programme at the national level.

This landmark event aims to enhance climate resilience and adaptation efforts in Antigua and Barbuda fostering dialogue and collaboration among the providers and users of climate information gathered to discuss climate outlooks, forecasts, and strategies for climate risk management.

“We are excited to host our inaugural National Climate Outlook Forum in collaboration with the CIMH,” said Dale Destin, Director of the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service.

“This forum marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance climate resilience and preparedness in our country. By bringing together key stakeholders, we aim to foster a better
understanding of climate risks and strengthen our collective response to climate change.”

Adrian Trotman, Head of the Regional Climate Centre for the Caribbean located at the CIMH underscored the importance of collaborative efforts, remarking “This 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 Antigua and Barbuda can be developed.  This event demonstrates Antigua and Barbuda’s proactive stance to addressing climate challenges and resilience building.”

He reiterated CIMH’s commitment to providing technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen the development and delivery of climate services in Antigua and Barbuda, and across the Caribbean region.

European Union (EU) Head of Cooperation, David Mogollon, commented on the long-standing partnership between the EU and Antigua and Barbuda. He expressed support for Antigua and
Barbuda stating: “The European Union recognizes the importance of regional and national forums in addressing climate challenges.

We are pleased to support Antigua and Barbuda in this endeavour and look forward to the outcomes that will contribute to the broader global climate resilience agenda.” He also congratulated CIMH and commended the ongoing work by the Institute to strengthen capacities to address the impact of climate change.

He 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.

The inaugural National Climate Outlook Forum in Antigua and Barbuda will bring together meteorologists, climatologists, and stakeholders, including policymakers, academia, community leaders, and representatives from climate-sensitive sectors.

The event will feature presentations on climate science, seasonal forecasts, and climate projections tailored to the needs of Antigua
and Barbuda.

Breakout sessions focused on priority sectors such as agriculture and food security, disaster risk reduction, health, water resources, energy, and tourism.

These sessions will provide participants with opportunities to exchange knowledge, share best practices, discuss sector specific challenges and opportunities for climate adaptation and resilience-building, and explore innovative solutions to address climate-related challenges facing Antigua and Barbuda.