Accra, (Greater Accra) 25 Feb. '99,
Accra, (Greater Accra) 25 Feb. '99, The 12th Session of the Commission for Agrometeorology ended in Accra on today with an appeal to donor agencies to assist developing countries to improve their network of agrometeorological stations to provide timely and efficient services to agriculture. The Commission noted with concern the reducing number of agrometeorological observation stations, saying that 13 out of the 54 countries which reported on their activities at the session had reduced their number of stations as compared to 1995. It noted that with increasing swing in the weather and climate, farmers in developing countries which are more vulnerable to climate- related change and natural disaster, need accurate predictions and forecast to plan their activities. Under the theme: "Weather, Climate and Agriculture", the session attended by over 100 delegates from all over the world to, among other things, draw up a programme for the Commission for 1999-2002. The Commission emphasised the need to diffuse information and technology on the weather and climate to the farmer-level in developing countries for the effective management of crop production. Delegates expressed their commitment to promote "agrometeorological applications for efficient, sustainable food, fodder and fibre production for an increasing world population in rapidly changing environments". They also called for the implementation of United Nations Conventions which protect the environment. In an address, Mr Ben C. Eghan, Chief Director of the Ministry of Communications, assured the delegates of Ghana's determination to contribute its quota towards the achievement of global food security. "As I followed the proceedings of the 12th Session of the Commission, I could not fail to notice that your mission is laudable and well focused, and approach to its realisation is excellent. "I, therefore, pledge the support of the government of Ghana to your Commission and urge all countries to do likewise in the Commission's principal task aimed at improving agricultural production to meet the needs of the ever increasing global population against the background of predicted negative impacts of climate change on agricultural production". Ghana is the first country in Africa to host the conference. Slovenia and Bolivia have proposed to host the 13th Session in 2003. The Commission for Agrometeorology is responsible for the application of meteorology to agricultural farming systems, forestry, livestock management and agricultural land use. It takes into consideration meteorology and agricultural development in both the scientific and practical fields. It also develops agricultural meteorology services of member-countries by the transfer of knowledge and methodology through advice on a wide range of issues. The eight-day session was originally scheduled to close on Friday, February 26. GRi .../
