South Africa has a valuable archive of climate data, gathered over the years by the South African Weather Service and the South African Environmental Observation Network. A Multistakeholder Ideation Workshop co-hosted by Six Capitals looked at how this data can be harnessed for climate action.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has an extensive climate data history dating back to 1921. This data can be shared across academia, climate organisations and the private sector to build predictive models. Dr Andries Kruger, Chief Scientist at SAWS, encouraged these stakeholders to extract socio-economic value from this data trove. For example, historical rainfall patterns captured by SAWS can be analysed and projected to assess future flooding risks, enabling organisations to better prepare for extreme weather events.
Dr Kruger spoke at the recent Multistakeholder Ideation Workshop hosted by GIZ Digital Transformation Centre (DTC), Six Capitals ESG Advisory, and Team Europe Action.
This event brought together government, academia, civil society, and the private sector to explore data-driven solutions for addressing climate change.
A key focus of the workshop was how organisations can harness data generated by institutions like the SAWS and the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON). For example, SAEON vulnerability maps offer crucial insights that various organisations can use to assess risks within specific areas, aiding in climate risk modelling and strategic planning.
Dr Brian Mantlana, a commissioner at the Presidential Climate Commission, opened the event by highlighting the critical role of South Africa’s innovation ecosystem and science community in climate initiatives, emphasizing the need to leverage this ecosystem.
Dr Dawn Mahlobo, Senior Manager at SAWS, highlighted the country’s existing infrastructure and skills, underscoring the readiness of South Africa to harness these resources effectively.
Other keynote speakers included Ms Galaletsan Keebine, a junior data scientist at SAEON, who discussed the South African Risk and Vulnerability Atlas and the importance of open data access in supporting climate goals, while Ms Kogie Govender, science engagement coordinator at SAEON, emphasized the need to engage diverse communities and enhance data literacy to ensure all stakeholders benefit from climate data resources.
In her closing remarks, Ms Kwena Mabitsela of GIZ acknowledged that the workshop had laid the foundation for a collaborative ecosystem that promotes synergies between data, digital technologies, and climate action. She emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration and assured attendees that the ideas presented would be actively pursued.
The DTC welcomed all participants to stay connected, highlighting that shared efforts and enduring partnerships are essential for meaningful progress in climate action.
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