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The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority, in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), has launched a four-day workshop in Juba to validate a draft Meteorological Services Bill, policy framework and strategic plan.

The proposed legislation aims to establish a South Sudan Meteorological Authority to regulate, monitor and coordinate weather and climate services in accordance with international standards.

Officials say the creation of the authority will improve access to accurate and timely weather information, including early warning systems designed to protect lives and property while supporting key sectors such as aviation, agriculture and disaster risk management.

The workshop, which began on Monday, brings together stakeholders to review the draft documents, build consensus and prepare them for submission to the relevant ministry for further action.

Speaking during the opening session, Director of Corporate Services at the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority, Daffala Habib, who represented the Director General, said the review process was important to ensure the proposed framework reflects national priorities and global best practices.

Habib also thanked the World Meteorological Organization for its continued technical support in strengthening meteorological services in South Sudan.

“We feel we cannot let go of meteorology. That is why we are working very closely with the meteorological team. This exercise of establishing the legal framework, policy direction and strategic plan for meteorology is a step forward to help mobilize partners and resources, as well as provide direction to the government on how best to establish meteorology,” Habib said.

The World Meteorological Organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the completion and implementation of the proposed policy and legal framework.

The organization said the initiative would contribute to stronger weather forecasting capacity and improved early warning systems across South Sudan.