학술논문
Using co-production to improve the appropriate use of sub-seasonal forecasts in Africa
Document Type
article
Author
Linda Hirons; Elisabeth Thompson; Cheikh Dione; Victor S. Indasi; Mary Kilavi; Elias Nkiaka; Joshua Talib; Emma Visman; Elijah A. Adefisan; Felipe de Andrade; Jesse Ashong; Jasper Batureine Mwesigwa; Victoria L. Boult; Tidiane Diédhiou; Oumar Konte; Masilin Gudoshava; Chris Kiptum; Richmond Konadu Amoah; Benjamin Lamptey; Kamoru Abiodun Lawal; Richard Muita; Richard Nzekwu; Patricia Nying'uro; Willis Ochieng; Eniola Olaniyan; Nana Kofi Opoku; Hussen Seid Endris; Zewdu Segele; Pascal Moudi Igri; Emmah Mwangi; Steve Woolnough
Source
Climate Services, Vol 23, Iss , Pp 100246- (2021)
Subject
Language
English
ISSN
2405-8807
Abstract
Forecasts on sub-seasonal to seasonal (S2S) timescales have huge potential to aid preparedness and disaster risk reduction planning decisions in a variety of sectors. However, realising this potential depends on the provision of reliable information that can be appropriately applied in the decision-making context of users. This study describes the African SWIFT (Science for Weather Information and Forecasting Techniques) forecasting testbed which brings together researchers, forecast producers and users from a range of African and UK institutions. The forecasting testbed is piloting the provision of real-time, bespoke S2S forecast products to decision-makers in Africa. Drawing on data from the kick-off workshop and initial case study examples, this study critically reflects on the co-production process. Specifically, having direct access to real-time data has allowed user-guided iterations to the spatial scale, timing, visualisation and communication of forecast products to make them more actionable for users. Some key lessons for effective co-production are emerging. First, it is critical to ensure there is sufficient resource to support co-production, especially in the early co-exploration of needs. Second, all the groups in the co-production process require capacity building to effectively work in new knowledge systems. Third, evaluation should be ongoing and combine meteorological verification with decision-makers feedback. Ensuring the sustainability of project-initiated services within the testbed hinges on integrating the knowledge-exchanges between individuals in the co-production process into shaping sustainable pathways for improved operational S2S forecasting within African institutions.