Ghana moves to resolve funding challenges affecting aviation meteorological services

By:  Robert Kwaku Annor

The Ghana Meteorological Agency and the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority have engaged Parliament’s Select Committee on Information and Communications in high-level discussions to address concerns over unpaid statutory funds owed to the national weather agency.

The meeting, held at Aqua Safari Resort in Ada, focused on resolving delays in payments related to aviation meteorological services, which are critical for ensuring flight safety and regulatory compliance within Ghana’s airspace.

Director-General of GMet, Eric Asuman, emphasized the essential role of accurate and timely weather information in supporting pilots and air traffic controllers during flight operations, including takeoff, landing, and navigation. He warned that persistent non-payment of statutory obligations is placing strain on the agency’s ability to maintain and upgrade key infrastructure such as weather radar systems and communication platforms.

According to GMet, the funding gap could lead to reduced reliability of aviation weather services, increased operational risks, and potential non-compliance with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization. Such outcomes could negatively impact Ghana’s aviation safety ratings and global standing.

Members of the parliamentary committee, led by Chairman Abed-Nego A. Lamangin Azumah, described the engagement as part of ongoing oversight efforts to ensure accountability and effective service delivery. They acknowledged the challenges facing GMet, including outdated equipment and limited resources, and called for stronger collaboration among state institutions.

Officials from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority acknowledged the concerns and indicated that steps are being taken to address outstanding payments, with some disbursements already made. The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to working with GMet to ensure uninterrupted delivery of aviation meteorological services.

To address the situation, GMet proposed measures including a structured payment plan to clear arrears, the establishment of a predictable disbursement mechanism, enhanced coordination between agencies, and formal authorization for the International Air Transport Association to facilitate direct remittance of aviation-related charges.

Both agencies emphasized the importance of sustainable funding for meteorological services, noting their critical role not only in aviation safety but also in disaster preparedness, climate resilience, and broader national development.