The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has begun translating meteorological products into formats to cater to the needs of members with disabilities. This initiative aims to provide access to weather information.
Daily weather forecasts will be adapted into print, braille, audio, sign language, and language to accommodate disabilities. Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, emphasized the importance of communication, ensuring that everyone has access to information.
The initiative coincides with World Meteorological Day, celebrated annually on March 23. This year’s theme is “Closing the early warning gap together.”
Dr. Eric Asuman, Director General of GMet, explained that the agency is engaging with leaders to understand their needs, create content, and determine dissemination channels. He acknowledged that members of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD) are affected by climate crises, emphasizing the need for weather forecasting.
Mr. Joseph Atsu Homadzi, President of GFD, welcomed the initiative, highlighting the challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing weather information. He emphasized the importance of providing access to information, enabling individuals to make decisions and protect themselves and their communities.
The government has demonstrated its commitment to tackling climate change and building a country, supporting measures to expand early warning systems and improve communication methods. GMet’s initiative marks a step towards creating a society, where everyone has access to information, regardless of their abilities.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
