September 8-10, 2026 (LODWAR, Kenya) The 6th Sub-Regional Climate Outlook Forum (Sub-COF6) – Strengthening Climate Early Warning Uptake and Early Response in Pastoral Communities of the Karamoja Cluster (IGAD Cluster 1), drew participants from the cross-border areas of Ethiopia, Kenya, South Sudan and Uganda, including media representatives from the four countries.
Speaking on behalf of Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD Executive Secretary, Mr. Mubarak Mabuyu, Coordinator IDDRSI PCU said “After the forecast is presented the real work of translating what it means for food security, rangeland conditions, livestock and water supply begins. It is important to move from scientific knowledge to co-produced knowledge which communities can understand, trust and use”.
With a strong El Niño developing and wetter-than-usual rains expected, participants focused on downscaling the October-December (OND) regional forecast to sub-regional forecasts, co-producing advisories that meet the needs of individuals and institutions, and translating advisories into achievable actions.
The forum also engaged in dialogue on the traditionally and scientifically forecasted October-December (OND) season, forage and pasture outlook for OND, gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI) continuum for climate services, and livestock and rangeland sector advisory formulation.
In his presentation, Dr. Wamalwa Kinyanjui, Animal Health Expert said, “The anticipated favorable rainfall conditions present significant opportunities for recovery of livestock production systems following previous dry conditions. Improved rainfall is expected to enhance pasture, browse, fodder and water availability, resulting in improved livestock body condition, milk and meat production and overall pastoral livelihoods.”
Based on the forecast and the livestock-sector identified implications, the linked advisories were recommended: https://icpald.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sub-COF6-Advisories.pdf
Prior to this, a comprehensive review of the JJAS 2026 season provided context for the forward planning. Sector presentations examined impacts of the previous season on agriculture and food security, livestock and pastoralism, water resources, climate-induced migration and displacement, disaster risk management, peace and security and health.
ICPALD’s participation at Sub-COF6 was funded by International Development Research Centre (IDRC) /Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) under PASSAGE project.
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Additional Resources:
Forage prediction: https://icpald.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2026-OND-Forage-Prediction.pdf
