Africa Early Warnings Forum Opens In Addis Ababa As Climate Risks Intensify

By Mintesinot Nigussie  |  September 3, 2026

More than 300 government officials, development finance institutions, technology specialists and civil society representatives have gathered in Addis Ababa for a three-day forum focused on expanding early-warning systems across Africa as droughts, floods and other climate-related hazards continue to threaten communities and economies.

The Africa Early Warnings Forum is examining how African countries can close technology, infrastructure and financing gaps that limit the reach of early-warning systems, particularly at community level.

The meeting is being hosted by Ethiopia in partnership with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, World Meteorological Organisation, African Union Commission, International Telecommunication Union and International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Hana Abebe, head of the office at the Ministry of Planning and Development, said early-warning systems need to move beyond forecasting hazards to ensuring that timely information reaches vulnerable communities and enables them to act before disasters occur.

She called for sustained cooperation among governments, international organisations, artificial intelligence companies and the private sector to expand the continent’s capacity to anticipate and respond to climate-related risks.

The forum brings together representatives from across Africa alongside development banks, scientists, technology experts and civil society organisations. Discussions are expected to focus on the role of technology, financing and infrastructure in strengthening disaster preparedness.

The push comes as African countries face growing exposure to climate-related hazards, while many lack the infrastructure and financial resources required to develop and maintain effective early-warning systems.

The organisers are seeking to bring together governments, development institutions and technology companies to address those gaps and expand access to risk information.

Artificial intelligence is also emerging as part of the discussion, with participants examining how new technologies can improve the collection, processing and communication of information used to identify potential hazards.

Source: FSX Business News