Tea farmers in Rwanda’s Gicumbi District have seen significant improvements in agricultural planning due to a community-managed meteorological station established in 2020.
Jean Pierre Ngirinshuti from Mulindi Factory Company reports that forecast accuracy has increased from 55-60% to 85%. This local data aids in critical decisions such as worker assignments and transport routes.
In Nyamasheke District, Gatare Tea Company focuses on historical climate data rather than forecasts, measuring rainfall and other factors to prepare for seasonal changes.
Director Jean Damascene Gasarabwe emphasised the importance of this data for long-term planning.
Bernadette Nyiraneza from Katecogro in Karongi District relies on national forecasts because a local station is absent, highlighting the need for improved local data.
Philbert Shumbusho from Ferwacothe noted that tea growers are increasingly monitoring weather to take preventive measures.
Hervé Murenzi from Meteo Rwanda stated that the agency supports numerous weather stations and encourages farmers to share data for better forecasts.
Of the 361 observation systems, 18 are operated by partners, enhancing the overall accuracy of weather predictions.
