Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
STAKEHOLDERS from climate-sensitive sectors have converged in Harare for the National Climate Outlook Forum (NACOF), where Zimbabwe will receive its official 2025–26 summer rainfall forecast later today.
The annual event, hosted by the Meteorological Services Department (MSD), brings together experts, policymakers and sector representatives to analyse seasonal climate projections and prepare for the upcoming cropping season.
Opening the forum, MSD director Mrs Rebecca Manzou said this year’s edition marks a milestone in Zimbabwe’s growing self-reliance in climate forecasting.
“This year’s National Climate Outlook Forum is unique,” she said.
“In the past, we relied on downscaling forecasts from SADC, but this time we produced our own before the regional one.
“When the SADC forecast eventually came, we found ours consistent, a clear sign of our improved technical capacity.”
Mrs Manzou added that MSD will now issue monthly forecast updates to keep stakeholders informed throughout the season.
“It’s a lot of work, but worth it because our users will have fresh forecasts every month,” she said.
She also noted that the department is broadening its collaborations beyond agriculture and aviation to include energy, health and tourism.
“We are an agro-based economy, but climate affects all sectors. We are now equipping schools with health information and working closely with the energy and tourism sectors,” said Mrs Manzou.
Representing the Agricultural Advisory and Rural Development Services (AARDS), Matabeleland North provincial director Mrs Zenzele Ndlovu described NACOF as vital for aligning national planning with climate realities.
“Weather affects everyone — farmers, aviation, and more. As an agro-based country, we must plan around it,” she said.
The forum’s outcomes are expected to guide preparedness and planning across key sectors as Zimbabwe braces for the 2025–26 rainy season.
