Gaborone, Botswana – The SASSCAL Botswana Node has successfully concluded two training workshops aimed at improving weather monitoring and hydrometeorological data analysis in Botswana. The workshops took place from 20–23 October and 26–30 October 2026 in Gaborone. The training brought together participants from different government departments and partner organisations to strengthen their technical skills in operating Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) and analysing weather and water-related data using R software.
The first workshop, held from 20–23 October 2026, focused on the operation, maintenance and monitoring of Automatic Weather Stations. It brought together SASSCAL, the Department of Meteorological Services (DMS), Campbell Scientific and Aridus Botswana. During the workshop, the partners worked together to develop a proposal aimed at strengthening Botswana’s AWS monitoring systems and improving the quality of weather data collected. Reliable weather information is important for climate monitoring, planning and decision-making in sectors such as agriculture and water management.
The second workshop, held from 26–30 October 2026, focused on hydrometeorological data handling and analysis using R software. The training was facilitated by SASSCAL Botswana Node Programme Coordinator, Mr. John Isaac Molefe.Participants came from the Department of Meteorological Services, the Department of Water and Sanitation, the Department of Crop Production and Statistics Botswana.
During the practical sessions, participants learned how to manage and analyse large amounts of data, develop useful data products and present their findings. They also presented their work to management representatives from their respective departments.
The presentations highlighted the importance of continued technical support, including the need for high-performance computers to improve data processing and analysis.
Participants welcomed the training, saying it helped them overcome some of the challenges they face when working with large datasets. For those who attended the introductory training in 2025, the workshop provided an opportunity to refresh their knowledge and develop additional skills.
Mr. Molefe also demonstrated how R software can be used to analyse large datasets efficiently and produce information that can support planning and informed decision-making.
The workshops concluded with a closing session attended by Deputy Permanent Secretary Ms. Sebolao, DMS Director and SASSCAL Alternate Board Member Ms. Sebeela, and management representatives from the Department of Water and Sanitation and Statistics Botswana.
Speaking at the closing session, Ms. Sebolao thanked SASSCAL for organising the training, describing it as timely and important, particularly given the climate challenges associated with El Niño.
Ms. Sebeela also expressed her appreciation for SASSCAL’s continued support in addressing the technical training needs of DMS and its partner departments.
The successful completion of the two workshops reflects SASSCAL’s continued commitment to strengthening scientific and technical capacity in Southern Africa. Through such initiatives, SASSCAL supports institutions in improving weather monitoring, managing climate-related data and using scientific information to respond to climate change challenges.
