The DBCP Workshop on Ocean Observations and Data Applications for the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) will be conducted in person from 20–22 October 2026 in Toliara, Madagascar, at the kind invitation of the Marine Sciences and Resources Institute (IHSM), Toliara University and WMO-IOC DBCP. 

The goal of this workshop is to enhance the effectiveness and impact of ocean observing systems in the Western Indian Ocean by strengthening regional capacity, improving data use for forecasting and early warning, and supporting safer and more resilient coastal and maritime communities.

The objectives of the workshop are:

1. Demonstrating Socio-Economic Value: Illustrate how integrated ocean observations enhance regional forecasting for weather, climate, and ocean, while highlighting the economic and safety benefits for Western Indian Ocean (WIO) coastal communities and maritime sectors;  
2. Advancing Technical Innovation & Resilience: Provide access to state-of-the-art ocean observation and disaster prevention technologies, focusing on practical, hands-on skill development for sensor deployment, data processing, and early warning systems; 
3. Strategic Collaboration & Network Integration: Identify critical observation gaps in the WIO region and explore the cooperative frameworks across GOOS networks (including DBCP, SOT, SMART Cables), as well as through targeted bilateral partnerships;  
4. Standardizing Excellence & Data Management. Promoting data sharing across borders, increasing awareness and implementation of Ocean Best Practices, especially for ensuring rigorous Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC). 

This workshop is primarily designed for marine meteorological and oceanographic (met-ocean) forecasters, ocean data managers, and observation instrument operators. The themes will cover ocean observing technologies, data management, best practises, regional collaboration to improve observing capacities, and the role of ocean observations in operational services.

The workshop is open to applicants from the coastal nations, however the priority will be given to the Western Indian Ocean countries. It will include both classroom and hands-on training to improve understanding of equipment operation, maintenance, and data management. The workshop will be conducted in English only, facilitated by trainers from a wide spectrum of the international ocean community.