Seychelles Celebrates World Meteorological Day 2026, Marks 55 Years of Aviation Meteorological Services, and Strengthens Partnership with GeoSphere Austria

The Seychelles Meteorological Authority (SMA) joined the global community in celebrating World Meteorological Day 2026 under the theme “Observing and Forecasting Today, Protecting Tomorrow”, during a national event held on 20 March 2026 at Eden Blue Hotel. The celebration brought together government representatives, international partners, and staff of the Authority to reflect on the vital role of meteorological services in protecting lives, supporting economic activities, and strengthening national resilience in the face of increasing weather- and climate-related risks.

In her address, the Minister for Environment, Climate, Energy and Natural Resources, Ms Marie-May Jeremie, highlighted the critical contribution of the Seychelles Meteorological Authority as a pillar of the national disaster risk management system and an important driver of socio-economic development. She noted that meteorological services support key sectors such as aviation and maritime safety, tourism, fisheries, infrastructure planning, and climate resilience.

The Minister emphasised that the theme of this year’s celebration reflects the core work of meteorological services such as SMA, where observations collected through weather stations, satellites, and ocean monitoring systems form the foundation of forecasts and warnings that enable our society to prepare for future conditions.

The event also marked a significant milestone, celebrating 55 years of meteorological services supporting aviation in Seychelles, underscoring the long-standing role of meteorology in ensuring the safety and efficiency of air transport operations in the country.

In his address, Chairman of the SMA Board, Mr Gerard Hoareau, highlighted the strong sense of discipline, dedication, and service that underpins the work of the Seychelles Meteorological Authority. He noted that behind every forecast and warning lies a continuous effort by staff who operate around the clock, often under demanding conditions, to ensure that accurate and timely information is delivered to the nation. He also reflected on the evolving technological landscape in meteorology, including the growing use of digital platforms and artificial intelligence, while reaffirming that these advancements complement, not replace, the scientific expertise, human judgement, and sense of responsibility that remain central to effective forecasting and warning services.

A key highlight of the celebration was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Seychelles Meteorological Authority and GeoSphere Austria, the National Meteorological Service of Austria. The agreement, signed by SMA Chief Executive Officer Mr Vincent Amelie and GeoSphere Austria Director-General Dr Andreas Schaffhauser, establishes a framework for technical and scientific collaboration between the two institutions.

The partnership aims to strengthen cooperation in meteorology, climate services, and capacity development, while promoting knowledge exchange and the sharing of best practices. It reflects a commitment to building long-term institutional collaboration based on mutual learning and shared expertise.

The event programme further included presentations on the seasonal forecast, the Authority’s observation network, and new digital tools, as well as recognition of voluntary observers who contribute to meteorological data collection across the country.

As Seychelles marked World Meteorological Day 2026, the Seychelles Meteorological Authority reaffirmed its commitment to advancing meteorological science, strengthening early warning systems, and building resilience through innovation, collaboration, and service to the nation.