The facility will provide real-time atmospheric data on temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, and wind patterns up to 30 kilometres above the Earth’s surface. Experts say such continuous monitoring is essential for improving forecast accuracy, aviation safety, disaster preparedness, and climate adaptation planning, particularly in Rwanda’s mountainous landscape.

The station was established with support from the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), UNDP Rwanda, and the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI).

“This milestone marks a significant step forward in strengthening Rwanda’s meteorological observation capacity,” said Aimable Gahigi, Director General of the Rwanda Meteorology Agency. “The commissioning of the country’s first Automatic Upper-Air Station enhances our ability to generate high-quality atmospheric data essential for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, disaster risk reduction, aviation safety, and the protection of lives and livelihoods.”

Speaking at the launch, Minister of Environment Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye said: “The station marks a major step forward in strengthening weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and Rwanda’s contribution to global meteorological observations for early warning for all.”

The station is expected to improve early warnings for floods, landslides, and other climate-related hazards.