Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS)

The history of meteorological data collection in Malawi dates back to the 1890s when records were kept by administrators at the BOMAS, missionaries, farmers, and individuals. Initially, stations were set up along the Shire River and in the Shire Highlands, primarily focusing on logistics rather than technical aspects. In the mid-1940s, a systematic network of stations was established under the meteorological authority, initially driven by the need for aviation weather services. Over time, other sectors such as agriculture, forestry, water resources, and education recognized the value of meteorological data. As a result, the Meteorological Department transitioned to considering technical aspects and specific user needs when establishing new stations. This shift aimed to build a consistent and purpose-driven network, catering to the requirements of diverse development projects in Malawi.