SMA Strengthens Collaboration with the Met Office, UK

Mr. Vincent Amelie, Chief Executive of the Seychelles Meteorological Authority (SMA), to the Met Office headquarters in Exeter, United Kingdom. The visit aimed to reinforce the long-standing partnership between the two institutions and to explore new opportunities for collaboration in weather, climate, and capacity-building initiatives.

The programme provided a comprehensive overview of the Met Office’s operational systems, research programmes, and service delivery approach, alongside in-depth discussions on several key areas of mutual interest.

Among the main topics covered were:

• Upper-Air Observations and GBON Standards – Discussions focused on the transition to the Global Basic Observing Network (GBON) and how Seychelles’ upper-air observation programme aligns with these global standards.
• Sub-Seasonal to Seasonal Forecasting – The Met Office, recognised as a global leader in these forecasting areas, shared insights on how Seychelles can benefit from WISER PASS programme. Pathways were identified to enhance seasonal and sub-seasonal forecasting support for Seychelles.
• Impact-Based Forecasting (IBF) and Early Warning Systems – Building on the progress under the WISER ActionFirst programme, discussions focused on enhancing SMA’s capacity to deliver more user-focused and actionable weather and climate information.
• Capacity Development and Technical Cooperation – Opportunities under CMDS, fellowships, and other WMO Voluntary Cooperation Programme (VCP) initiatives were discussed, alongside potential collaboration on training and knowledge exchange.

The visit concluded with a tour of the Met Office headquarters and Media Centre. Mr. Amelie noted that the visit was a valuable opportunity to deepen the partnership and align Seychelles’ priorities with international best practices.

“Our collaboration with the UK Met Office continues to bring tangible benefits to Seychelles,” said Mr. Amelie. “This visit helped us identify practical areas where joint efforts can further strengthen our forecasting capability, data access, and user-focused services.”

The SMA looks forward to continuing this productive collaboration with the Met Office and other international partners to enhance national and regional weather and climate services for the benefit of Seychelles and its communities.