Mariam Appointed Head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency
Mariam, a former NORCAP expert, has been named head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency. Under her leadership, the agency has improved climate service accuracy and showcased meteorology’s role in various sectors at FESPACO 2025. She advocates for women’s empowerment in climate action and emphasizes the need for diverse voices in decision-making to tackle climate challenges effectively.
Mariam, a former expert with NORCAP, has been appointed as the new head of Burkina Faso’s National Meteorological Agency (ANAM). Joining NORCAP through the Climate Action Accelerator Programme in 2023, she worked under mentor Emmanuel Poan to successfully implement the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, customising it to the region’s unique climate needs.
The collaborative efforts of her team significantly enhanced ANAM’s capacity for providing climate services. As a result, the accuracy of weather forecasts improved, making climate predictions more dependable and actionable for areas such as agriculture, disaster risk reduction, and water management. Mariam stated, “These improvements have helped decision-makers and communities make better-informed choices, enhancing resilience to climate risks.”
Mariam’s application to the Climate Action Accelerator Programme was distinguished among many applicants. Another significant achievement she highlights is ANAM’s participation at FESPACO 2025, Africa’s largest film festival. Her team, consisting of meteorologists and communications experts, launched an interactive stand that illustrated how weather impacts film production and public safety. She remarked, “This initiative expanded ANAM’s reach, demonstrating that meteorology is not just about forecasting but also a crucial tool for risk management, logistics, and creative industries.”
Mariam’s engagement with NORCAP and ANAM has successfully bridged the divide between scientific knowledge and societal needs. She conveyed her appreciation to the Burkinabè authorities for their confidence in her leadership and their efforts towards integrating gender inclusivity in climate governance. Mariam noted the difficult realities faced by Burkina Faso and similar nations in the Sahel, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in addressing climate challenges.
“Women, especially those in rural communities, experience climate change differently, often facing disproportionate risks while playing a crucial role in adaptation strategies. Yet, their voices remain underrepresented in climate science, meteorology, and decision-making spaces,” she explained. Mariam advocated for the empowerment of women as pivotal agents in climate action, asserting that their leadership is essential for fostering a sustainable future.
Mariam’s appointment as head of ANAM represents a significant step towards enhancing climate services in Burkina Faso. Her achievements underscore the importance of applying scientific knowledge to societal challenges and the need for greater representation of women in climate leadership. By expanding outreach and promoting gender inclusivity, Mariam aims to build resilience against climate change impacts, ultimately improving decision-making for communities. Her work emphasizes the vital role of meteorology beyond forecasting, reinforcing its importance in various sectors and advocating for empowered women as key players in creating sustainable climate solutions.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
