The Board and Management of the Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA) paid a courtesy visit to Bulindi ZARDI on May 29, 2024. The purpose of the visit was to deepen collaboration in meteorological research and its application to bolster the resilience and sustainability of Uganda’s agricultural sector. Bulindi ZARDI hosts a crucial weather station that monitors climatic conditions across the Bunyoro region.
During the meeting, Dr. Daniel Nadhomi, Chairperson of the technical committee on the UNMA Board, emphasised the pivotal role of accurate weather data in agricultural success. He highlighted that without reliable weather and climate information, agricultural activities cannot be effectively planned and managed.
Dr. Nadhomi also urged researchers to consider a broad range of weather parameters beyond just rainfall and temperature, such as wind speed, intensity, and the influence of weather on crop behaviour like nodding of cereal crops during critical growth stages.
These insights, he noted, are vital for optimising crop yields and agricultural practices. Mr. Walubi Joel, the Weather Observer at Bulindi ZARDI station, guided the UNMA team and local staff on a tour of the meteorological infrastructure.
This tour aimed to assess the current status of equipment and ensure timely maintenance and replacement of outdated technology. Mr. Milton Wasswa Michael, Ag. Director of UNMA’s Station Networks and Observation, pledged to upgrade the station’s equipment to enhance the accuracy and reliability of weather data.