Burkina Faso researchers win OMM award for runway monitoring
A team from Burkina Faso received the 11th Professor Dr Vilho Väisälä Award for their work on real-time runway monitoring during rain.
A team of Burkinabe researchers has won the eleventh Professor Dr Vilho Väisälä Award from the World Meteorological Organization (OMM). They were recognized for their work on real-time monitoring of runway conditions during rainy periods. The award was presented on October 7, 2026, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, during the OMM Technical Conference (TECO-2026) and the Meteorological Technology World Expo 2026.
The distinction rewards a technological innovation designed to improve runway monitoring and enhance air traffic safety during the rainy season. Dr. Mariam Tidiga, Director General of Burkina Faso's National Meteorology Agency, attended the ceremony. Dr. Dieudonné Sama presented the winning research and accepted the diploma and medal on behalf of the team. The award includes a financial prize of 10,000 United States dollars.
This award highlights Burkina Faso's scientific contributions. 10 researchers affiliated with Burkina Faso institutions were also listed in the 2026 global ranking of the world's most cited scientists, according to TOPSCINET data. This presence shows the influence of several researchers and scientific teams associated with the country's research and higher education institutions.
Why it mattersBurkinabe researchers received international recognition and a financial award for innovation in meteorological technology.