Kenya and France Sign Meteorological Modernisation Pact

Kenya has moved a step closer to a comprehensive overhaul of its national weather and climate services after the Kenya Meteorological Service Authority signed a Statement of Intent with Meteo France International at State House, Nairobi.

The signing was witnessed by President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron, and formalises a cooperation framework that has been in technical and financial discussion for several years.

The modernisation programme targets four core areas: enhancement of observational networks, upgrade of information systems, deployment of operational applications, and strengthening of flood risk management capacity.

The initiative is designed to improve the delivery of weather and climate services that underpin agriculture, disaster risk reduction, economic planning, and environmental management across Kenya.

Acting KMSA Director General Edward M. Muriuki signed on behalf of the Kenyan authority. Meteo France International President Jean-Sébastien Cases signed for the French side. Environment Cabinet Secretary Dr Debora Barasa and Principal Secretary Eng. F. Ngeno were present at the ceremony.

Meteo France International is the international subsidiary of France’s national meteorological authority, with a mandate to implement meteorological modernisation projects globally. Under the proposed cooperation, MFI is expected to support technology transfer and institutional capacity building within KMSA.

The agreement is also intended to strengthen Kenya’s preparedness against extreme weather events — floods and droughts in particular,  as climate variability increases pressure on the country’s early warning and response infrastructure.

Kenya’s interest in the partnership reflects growing national demand for high-quality, actionable climate information at a time when weather-related disruptions are imposing rising costs on agriculture, infrastructure, and public services.