INVITATION: 14th International Conference on Southern Hemisphere Meteorology and Oceanography (ICSHMO)

The National Research Foundation (NRF) cordially invites members of the media to the 14^th International Conference on Southern Hemisphere Meteorology and Oceanography (ICSHMO), which will take place from 31 March to 04 April 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. This conference marks a significant return to the African continent, as the conference was last held here in 1997.

Why should you attend?

ISCHMO is an exciting opportunity for media to access insights on research trends and policies on climate resilience, risk management, extreme weather events, societal impact, advances in climate and ocean modelling, climate adaptation and resilience planning from leading experts locally and internationally. As the world grapples with escalating environmental crises, ICSHMO 2025 will offer a vital platform for collaboration, innovation, and actionable solutions helping to shape the future of climate science and policy.

“The world is facing increasing environmental challenges,” says Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, CEO of the NRF. “This conference will provide a necessary platform for collaboration, innovation, and solutions that will shape the future of climate science. We invite the media, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to join us in driving impactful discussions and strengthening global partnerships for a sustainable future.”

Conference highlights

An exciting programme will run throughout the week of the conference, packed with insights, innovation, and engagement, and will include special sessions and side events such as:

• Tour of S. A. Agulhas II: A limited, invitation only tour of South Africa’s premiere research ship on the evening of 30 March.
• South Africa Risk and Vulnerability Atlas (SARVA) Policy: Hosted in partnership with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) on 01 April from 10:00 to 15:30.
• Launch of Ocean20: A social track of the G20, the Ocean20 launch will take place on 02 April with the aim of creating ocean actions towards sustainability. This kick-off event is just the start of events linked to South Africa’s Chairing of the G20 and is expected to raise the profile of our oceans.
• Science, Stories and Solutions: This societal engagement, hosted in partnership with the DSTI, will take place on 02 April from 17:00 to 20:00. This vibrant session is a bottom-up dissemination of knowledge sharing between the scientists, policy makers, and community members. The session will seek to highlight the connection between the pressing climate-related challenges facing South Africa, such as water security, extreme weather events, and ocean-atmosphere interactions.
• Coastal Resilience: Taking place on 03 April, this session will explore how innovative technology and citizen science can enhance adaptation and sustainability.

Members of the media will have exclusive access to connect with leading researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals as well as impactful stories from ground-breaking research and solutions that translate into real-world policy and societal impact. In addition, the conference will provide media with networking opportunities to engage in discussions that drive collaboration and innovation.

RSVP and media enquiries

To register for the full five-day conference, visit https://icshmo2025.com. We look forward to welcoming you to the 14^th ICSHMO Conference at the CTICC and arranging access to interviews with keynote speakers and subject matter experts.

For media queries contact: Bongani Nkosi, Media Relations Officer, NRF Corporate Communications, Email: b.nkosi@nrf.ac.za, Mobile: 061 477 3064 or ischmo2025@saeon.nrf.ac.za.