02/12/2023 –, Auditorium
Langue: English
Access to reliable and up-to-date geospatial information is crucial for informed decision-making and sustainable development. However, African countries face significant challenges in accessing GIS data, including limited availability, high costs, and technological barriers. This abstract presents a proposal to revolutionize GIS data access in Africa by leveraging the power of OpenStreetMap (OSM), Leaflet, OpenLayers, and GeoServer.
OpenStreetMap (OSM) offers a crowd-sourced, freely available mapping platform that empowers local communities to contribute and maintain geospatial data. By harnessing the collaborative nature of OSM, African countries can overcome limitations in data availability and engage local communities in data collection and updates. This inclusive approach enhances the richness and accuracy of GIS data in Africa.
Leaflet and OpenLayers are user-friendly JavaScript libraries for web mapping. They provide intuitive and interactive map interfaces, enabling users to visualize and interact with OpenStreetMap data. By incorporating Leaflet and OpenLayers into GIS applications, African countries can overcome technological barriers and provide user-friendly access to geospatial information, even on mobile devices.
GeoServer, an open-source server for publishing geospatial data, plays a crucial role in overcoming data access challenges in Africa. It allows the integration of OpenStreetMap data into the system, enabling seamless collaboration with other geospatial datasets. GeoServer offers standard geospatial web services, such as Web Map Service (WMS) and Web Feature Service (WFS), making OpenStreetMap data accessible through various protocols.
Through GeoServer, African countries can customize the styling of OpenStreetMap data to suit their specific requirements. This flexibility enables users to create visually appealing and informative maps, supporting effective decision-making processes. Additionally, GeoServer incorporates performance optimization techniques, data security measures, and supports multiple data formats, ensuring efficiency, accessibility, and interoperability.
To overcome the challenges of GIS data access in Africa, it is crucial to foster collaboration, capacity building, and data sharing. By promoting open-source solutions like OpenStreetMap, Leaflet, OpenLayers, and GeoServer, African countries can enhance data accessibility, transparency, and empower local communities. The cost-effectiveness of these tools ensures that financial constraints do not hinder access to geospatial information.
This abstract presents a comprehensive framework to revolutionize GIS data access in Africa. By leveraging the power of OpenStreetMap, Leaflet, OpenLayers, and GeoServer, African countries can bridge the gap in data availability, promote inclusive decision-making processes, and drive sustainable development initiatives. Through collaboration and capacity building, we can unlock the potential of geospatial information in Africa and build a brighter future for the continent.
Manuel Ndebele is a diligent GIS Analyst with nearly eight years of experience and a strong academic background. He holds a second upper-class degree in Geographical Information Science and Earth Observation from the University of Zimbabwe, as well as a second upper-class degree in Monitoring and Evaluation from Lupane State University. Recently, he completed a postgraduate degree in Remote Sensing and GIS with the UN-Africa Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education.
Manuel's expertise lies in GIS database development, spatial data capture, visualization, analysis, and storage. His geodatabase design and management skills are exemplary, ensuring efficient organization of data. He specializes in GIScience for infrastructure and asset management, with proficiency in GIS algorithms, modeling, and remote sensing techniques, including hyperspectral remote sensing for earth observation.
As a proactive GIS specialist, Manuel continuously seeks to add value and improve processes. He has successfully contributed to a broad range of GIS projects, including consulting, planning, modeling, analysis, testing, and implementation of GIS solutions. His areas of expertise encompass near real-time data collection for environmental governance and policy, spatial statistics and analysis for social and environmental impact assessment, and systems development for GIS algorithms and modeling in geoscience infrastructure management.
Currently, Manuel is a GIS programmer at the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency, where he utilizes his comprehensive knowledge and skills to develop innovative solutions and programming algorithms. His dedication to leveraging GIS technology for improved decision-making and sustainable development contributes significantly to the agency's geospatial initiatives.
With a diverse educational background and a wealth of experience, Manuel is a valuable asset in the field of GIS. His qualifications, skills, and passion make him an ideal candidate for organizations seeking expertise in geospatial data analysis, management, remote sensing, and programming.