Namibia has called on Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states to increase investment in meteorological services and strengthen early-warning systems as the region faces growing climate-related risks.

Namibian Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi made the call on Tuesday at the opening of the 33rd Southern Africa Climate Outlook Forum (SARCOF-33) in the coastal town of Swakopmund.

Nekundi said regional climate forecasts must be translated into early action across climate-sensitive sectors, including agriculture, water, energy, health, infrastructure and disaster management.

"Early warning is the single most cost-effective tool we have in the fight against climate disasters," he said.

The four-day forum, convened by the SADC Secretariat through the SADC Climate Services Center, is being held under the theme "From Climate Observation to Seasonal Prediction: Informing Early Action for the Upcoming Season."

Nekundi also called for faster implementation of multi-hazard early-warning systems, citing the United Nations goal of ensuring that everyone is protected by life-saving early-warning systems by the end of 2027.

According to SADC, SARCOF brings together climate experts, representatives of national meteorological and hydrological services, sector specialists and users of climate information to develop a regional seasonal climate outlook.

The forum also seeks to translate climate forecasts into practical guidance to support preparedness, planning and early action.

The SADC Secretariat said Southern Africa remains highly exposed to climate variability and extreme weather, posing risks to food and water security, energy supplies, health, infrastructure and livelihoods.

Participants at SARCOF-33 are expected to produce an advisory and early-warning summary to guide policymakers and other decision-makers in preparing for the upcoming season.