The World Food Programme (PAM) and the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo, through the National Agency of Meteorology and Satellite Remote Sensing (METTELSAT), have signed a protocol agreement to launch the Systematic Observation Financing Facility (SOFF) project. This project aims to improve climate data and prevent natural disasters in the country. The agreement was signed on September 26, 2026, and marks the beginning of the project's implementation.
The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly visible in the DRC, with frequent floods, droughts, storms, and other extreme weather events affecting populations, livelihoods, and food security. According to David Stevenston, Representative of PAM in the DRC, reliable and quality meteorological data are essential for effective disaster prevention and response. The SOFF project will help address these challenges by providing accurate and timely climate data.
The SOFF project will install 68 surface meteorological stations and 12 upper-air observation stations across the country. Additionally, eight automatic pilot meteorological stations will be deployed in Kinshasa. The project will also strengthen the institutional and human capacities of METTELSAT. These actions will enable the DRC to transmit regular meteorological data that meets international standards.
The project, funded by the Global SOFF Fund, will be implemented over 42 months and will cover all 26 provinces of the DRC. Particular attention will be given to provincial capitals and areas most exposed to hydroclimatic shocks, including coastal zones, regions along the Congo River, and major agricultural basins.
METTELSAT's Director-General, Joseph Itela Y'Ilondo, welcomed the partnership, describing it as a decisive step for the country. He emphasized that the project will help address fundamental gaps in basic meteorological observation networks. METTELSAT's technical teams are fully mobilized to work closely with PAM and other stakeholders to ensure the project's success.
The partnership between PAM and METTELSAT reflects a shared vision of a modern, reliable, and sustainable meteorological observation system that can effectively serve the country's needs. The project will contribute to the development of a robust and reliable climate data system, enabling the DRC to better prepare for and respond to natural disasters.
The implementation of the SOFF project is expected to have a positive impact on the country's ability to prevent and respond to natural disasters. By providing accurate and timely climate data, the project will help reduce the risks associated with extreme weather events and promote sustainable development in the DRC.
Key points
- The DRC's PAM and METTELSAT have partnered to improve climate data and prevent natural disasters through the SOFF project.
