Somalia launches satellite-based weather system to boost aviation safety, climate resilience
This development marks a major step in the modernisation of Somalia’s aviation infrastructure and places the country in line with other African nations that have adopted similar technologies.
The Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) has officially launched a new satellite-based weather monitoring and forecasting system aimed at improving aviation safety and strengthening the country’s capacity to respond to climate-related risks.
This development marks a major step in the modernisation of Somalia’s aviation infrastructure and places the country in line with other African nations that have adopted similar technologies.
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The new system is built on the Meteosat Third Generation (MTG) satellite platform. It uses satellite connectivity to deliver precise and up-to-date climate data.
The technology allows for real-time monitoring of weather patterns, environmental changes, and potential hazards, which is essential for safe flight operations and air traffic control.
According to the SCAA, the system replaces a weather monitoring setup that had been used for over a decade.
In addition to the MTG satellite, the upgrade includes the PUMA-2025 workstation and the ClimSA platform.
Improved forecasting
These components together provide improved forecasting and early warning capabilities.
The African Union (AU), the European Union (EU), and the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) supported the installation and implementation of the system.
"Launched cutting-edge weather tech, including the MTG satellite system, PUMA-2025 workstation & ClimSA platform, replacing a decade-old system. Backed by the AU, EU & EUMETSAT, this breakthrough gives Somalia real-time high-resolution forecasting power like never before," the Somali Civil Aviation Authority said in a statement.
The SCAA described this development as a major step toward improving aviation safety, building national climate resilience, and positioning Somalia as a regional leader in aviation and meteorological systems.
Ahmed Moallin Hassan, the Director-General of the Somali Civil Aviation Authority, said the launch of this system represents more than a technical upgrade.
He described it as a strategic achievement that advances the country’s capabilities in climate adaptation and modern air navigation services.
He added that the system will support Somalia’s ability to contribute to regional aviation safety standards and respond effectively to changing climate conditions.
With the integration of satellite-based observations and digital forecasting platforms, Somalia aims to improve the reliability of flight schedules and reduce the risks associated with severe weather events.
The new technology is also expected to benefit other sectors, including agriculture, disaster preparedness, and maritime operations, all of which rely on accurate and timely weather information.
The Somali Civil Aviation Authority confirmed that the system is now fully operational and will be monitored to ensure that it delivers the expected results in providing detailed and timely weather data for both aviation and non-aviation users.
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