Strengthening Africa's systems for climate change resilience: The role of Climate Information Systems (CIS)

Abstract

This study examines the role of Climate Information Services (CIS) in strengthening Africa’s resilience to climate change amid increasing climate variability and extreme events. The objective is to assess the current state, effectiveness, and challenges of CIS across the continent and to identify pathways for enhancing their contribution to climate-resilient development. Methodologically, the study adopts a mixed qualitative approach that combines a critical review of scholarly and policy literature, systematic document analysis, stakeholder consultations, and comparative case studies from East, West, and Southern Africa, complemented by thematic analysis to synthesise key patterns and insights. The results show that CIS adoption has increased across Africa, particularly in agriculture, where access to timely and tailored climate information has contributed to improved decision-making, higher crop yields, and reduced climate-related economic losses. However, the findings also reveal uneven coverage and utilisation of CIS, driven by persistent constraints such as limited observational infrastructure, weak institutional capacity, low literacy levels, digital divides, and pronounced gender disparities that restrict access for women and rural communities. The discussion highlights that innovations such as downscaled climate products, mobile-based dissemination, digital platforms, and public–private partnerships can significantly enhance the relevance and reach of CIS when coupled with strong user engagement and co-production of knowledge. In conclusion, CIS are a critical tool for building climate resilience in Africa, but their transformative potential will only be realised through sustained investment in data systems, inclusive and gender-responsive service design, and stronger integration into national and regional development and adaptation frameworks.