Freedom Mukanga Honoured in Addis

Freedom Mukanga Receiving the Management and Leadership Award from Dr. Buruhani Nyenzi

Freedom Mukanga was honoured at the African Meteorological Society Awards Banquet held on the evening of 22 April. The recognition formed one of the standout moments of the First Joint Conference of AfMS–IFMS–EMI, acknowledging his contributions to the growth of the African Meteorological Society (AfMS) and his role in the successful delivery of the same conference in Addis Ababa.

What made the recognition especially meaningful was the company in which it was received—alongside distinguished leaders widely regarded as global leaders in weather and climate science, including Dr. Buruhani Nyenzi, Mr. Workneh Degefu, Prof. Charles M. Ichoku, Prof. Bernard Tyubee, and Dr. Harinder Pal Singh Ahluwalia. Their mentorship and trust have played a significant role in shaping Freedom’s journey and contributions to the global meteorological community.

The evening also marked a major milestone for the Society with the official launch of the inaugural Journal of the African Meteorological Society. The journal was unveiled by Mr. Fetene Teshome, Director General of the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute and President of World Meteorological Organisation Regional Association I (Africa). This first edition features high-quality research from leading scientists across the continent. Freedom contributed to this landmark publication as Production Manager, supporting its development and delivery.

The event was made possible through the support of key partners, including IGAD Climate Prediction and Application Center, the American Meteorological Society, the Royal Meteorological Society (RMetS), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Campbell Scientific, Ethiopian Airlines, and INFO-ELECTRONICS SYSTEMS.

Citation (Excerpt):Mr. Freedom Mukanga is recognised for his outstanding leadership and dedication as Chair of the Communications Committee of the African Meteorological Society, and for his exceptional contributions to the development and maintenance of the AfMS website and the 2026 Scientific Conference platform. His work in managing newsletters, email communications, social media, and high-quality visual content has significantly enhanced the Society’s visibility and engagement.