African Digital and Green Transition (ADGT) is a project funded by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland and implemented by HAUS. Through this project, Finnish experts are seconded to public sector organizations in African countries for 3–5 months. This cooperation supports local digitalization efforts and opens doors to sustainable partnerships with Finnish organizations.

Antti Kangas / Finnish Meteorological Institute

This autumn, I have worked as a seconded expert in Casablanca on the African Digital and Green Transition project, with the objective of supporting the Moroccan Meteorological Institute (DGM) in its digitalization and green transition efforts. Back home, I work at Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI), and in Morocco, my focus has been on and enhancing the digital processing of meteorological data for improved weather observation, forecasting and warning systems.

From the outset, I was warmly welcomed by the Moroccan team. In my first week, it became clear that Morocco is one of the leading countries in Africa in meteorology and oceanography. I discovered that the infrastructure and processes for producing weather services are well-established. Morocco operates its own high-performance computer, generating state-of-the-art regional weather forecasts. The meteorologists are highly competent, and the service processes are efficient.

After familiarizing myself with the institute and its staff, we agreed on a detailed action plan for my work. The plan includes tasks such as planning a snow observation network, improving the agency’s website services, and strategizing the institute’s commercial changes. Additionally, I have been closely involved in benchmarking services and processes and exploring future cooperation opportunities. We are planning to sign soon a memorandum of understanding between DGM and FMI to enhance future collaboration.

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The Moroccan climate has been warm and pleasant, both at work and outside the office. I have had ample opportunities to explore the country and meet people during my free time. I have visited several of Morocco’s major cities, including the royal cities of Marrakech and Fes, and the Mediterranean city of Tanger. Morocco boasts a rich history and diverse landscapes. In a single day, you can experience the Sahara Desert, North Africa’s highest mountains, and Atlantic beaches. In my leisure time, I have been taking French lessons, surfing at the Casablanca beach and enjoying a a cup of fresh mint tea at the street cafeterias.