Leaders from 50 African nations have adopted the Addis Ababa Call to Action on Early Warnings in Africa, a commitment to improve cooperation for early warning systems. This declaration, made at the Africa Early Warnings Forum, aims to ensure all communities can anticipate climate-related hazards and take action before disasters occur.
The call emphasizes accelerating progress made since the 2022 Early Warnings for All initiative, though significant gaps remain, particularly in Small Island Developing States, Least Developed Countries, and fragile countries. The leaders stressed the need for people-centered, inclusive, and accessible warning systems, recognizing them as essential national infrastructure.
African nations are urged to strengthen domestic budget allocations and scale up innovative financing mechanisms. International climate, development, and humanitarian finance are called upon to provide adequate, predictable, and accessible funding. The declaration also highlights the importance of connecting warnings to preparedness and early action, strengthening decentralized capacity, and integrating early warnings across various sectors, including agriculture, health, and water. Technology, innovation, and artificial intelligence are also recognized as key elements for enhancing these systems.
Source: Down To Earth