By Edward Kayiwa
The Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA) is set to acquire a new super computer that will help in improving the accuracy and reliability of predicted weather patterns across the country.
The system, expected by the end of March, is expected to boost crop yields for farmers, better routes for truck drivers and pilots, and enhanced weather maps for the country’s emergency responders and soldiers.
According to Stephen Kaboyo, the country director for the California-based tech firm, Atmo, who are suppliers of the system, the new weather prediction system will set the stage for the next five years of meteorological development in Uganda.
“When Uganda begins using this tool, it will become one of the leading forecasters in East Africa. It is also expected that more accurate and detailed data on weather patterns, previous challenges in the agriculture, transport and other sectors will be overcome,” he said.
He said Atmo will deliver the machine pre-loaded with a meteorology operating system that uses AI algorithms to automatically correct the forecast based upon real-world observations.
During the US-Africa Leaders’ Summit in Washington last year, President Museveni promised to launch a new climate prediction system in Kampala by March 2023.
The president said the country would adopt cutting edge technology to improve the accuracy and reliability of weather forecasting to improve the lives of Ugandans and drive economic growth.
Dr. Isaac Mugume, Director of Forecasting Services at UNMA said the move will improve Uganda’s ability to accurately predict and prepare for weather events.
He said the new system, which utilizes artificial intelligence and advanced data analysis techniques, will provide crucial information to a range of sectors including agriculture, transportation, and energy.
He added that with the integration of Atmo’s technology, Uganda will be able to accurately predict and plan for extreme weather events such as heavy rain, strong winds, and droughts.
He said the system will also provide new opportunities for businesses and industries that rely on accurate weather forecasting.
Odrek Rwabwogo, Chairperson of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development said the meteorology system may be twice as accurate and ten times more detailed than any existing system in the country.
He said already, the weather map generated by Atmo, shows ten times more detail than any previous African meteorology system, making it the first of its kind on the continent.
“This computer will dramatically increase the detail and accuracy of climate forecasts in the country. This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking leadership we need,” he said.
