The Zanyengo E-Newsletter 7th Edition (NG'OMA YALIRA / THE DRUM HAS SOUNDED)

Theme: NG'OMA YALIRA - "The Drum Has Sounded". On 2 September at NACOF-5 in Lilongwe, Hon. Patricia Wiskes, MP, released DCCMS's 2026/2027 Seasonal Climate Outlook.

Key Message: A high chance of below-normal rainfall over most Southern and Central areas, and normal to above-normal over most of the North. El Niño conditions have developed and are expected to strengthen into December and early next year.

In this Edition:

From Forecast to Action: Fifth National Climate Outlook Forum (NACOF-5) brought ministries, DoDMA, WFP, UK Met Office and humanitarian partners together. DoDMA has already activated Tier One of the Anticipatory Action Framework for agricultural drought.

Regional Context: SARCOF-33 in Swakopmund, Namibia (25-28 Aug) provided the SADC outlook that guided the national forecast.

How We Make It: DCCMS forecasters gathered at Mulunguzi, Zomba for weeks - checking observations, 1991-2020 climate records and models (SEAFORDS, CFT, PyCPT, WRF) to reach the statement.

To the Ground: Engagement with Inkosi Gomani V in Ntcheu to plan Fireside Chats that blend scientific forecasts with indigenous knowledge, and a visit by the Parliamentary Committee on Natural Resources to KIA on 30 September to see operational needs (weather radar, MK240 million) for the proposed Meteorological Bill.

Be Wise! Be Weather Wise!