The dynamics and logistics in developing 'complete' and sustainable communities are not so simple phenomena but rather ones that require planning, determination, and external influence. From the onset of establishing a community of individuals to the holding of a successful meeting, the organizers and founders need to have a clear understanding of what a community should look like in its incubation period until its maturity. The dynamics of assessing the merits might keep changing as one observes the trends within the community members as he provides the visionary role. This usually comes in the form of a well-structured vision, mission, and subsequent objectives. With the establishment of the following, a community will most likely have a strong holding in forthcoming years in case of a change of leadership and the general growth and development of the community.
OSM is a powerful tool in the continent of Africa bringing together individuals, institutions, and governments in generating and maintaining geospatial data. To ensure longevity and relevance it is important to focus on capacity building for communities. This talk will dwell on the topic using the case study of OSM Kenya as we discuss the ways to empower African mappers and provide practical approaches and strategies for enhancing community participation in providing open data. Ultimately, this talk aims to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the empowerment of local communities in driving the future of mapping in Africa. Redefining the concept of inclusion and diversity in mapping communities, highlighting the potential of emerging technologies and innovative approaches in growing sustainable communities.
At the end of the talk, attendees should have a clear understanding of what a community is, the main pillars of a community, how to grow a community and empower its members, challenges, and limitations likely to be faced, and how to overcome them, the significant role of collaborations and partnerships, registration of an entity with local governments and the importance of knowledge sharing.