
Abdul-Nayar Rabiatu Sungumu is a passionate open mapper and student of Geography and Regional Planning at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. She has actively contributed to multiple OpenStreetMap (OSM) projects across Ghana, focusing on disaster resilience, smart city development, agriculture, and climate change. Her work includes projects such as Eco-Smart City Ghana(Koforidua), Mapping Tema for Resilience, Urban Flood Mapping( Adentan-Legon Hills), Mapping Tamale for Resilience and Shoreline mapping in Dutch Komenda. She specializes in using a variety of mobile mapping tools, including Mapillary, OsmAnd, StreetComplete, Ground App, SW Maps and advanced editing with JOSM. In addition to contributing data, she trains and mentors members to engage in open mapping for local development. Rabiatu is passionate about using mapping as a tool for empowerment, digital inclusion, and sustainable development. She hopes to continue expanding her skills, build international collaborations, and support community resilience through open mapping.
- Using mobile mapping tools to document and improve community visibility in the Damongo district, Ghana

Abigail Agbenomba, je suis cartographe de formation et développeuse web junior, passionnée par les technologies numériques au service de l'action communautaire. Actuellement active dans la communauté OpenStreetMap Bénin, je m'engage depuis plusieurs années à former des jeunes au sein de cette initiative.
En outre, je suis responsable des projets liés aux genres au sein du groupe d'utilisateurs Wikimédiens du Bénin. Je suis également trésorière générale bénévole de l'association Sans pagEs.
- EduMap Bénin
- geo3D. Harnessing OpenStreetMap for Community-Led 3D City Modelling and Sustainable Development Education in Africa
- 3D City Models for Geography and Sustainable Development Education with geo3D

Aisha Hamis is a dynamic and highly creative Communication Officer at OpenMap Development Tanzania (OMDTZ), where she leads strategic storytelling, digital media production, and community-centered communication for open mapping and climate resilience projects. She brings a strong multimedia background as a content creator, producer, and editor, blending creativity with purpose to connect data to real community stories.
- The role of Communication in Project Design

Amos Katompa is a humanitarian mapping and GIS specialist, co-founder of the OSM Student Club at the University of Kinshasa. He trains young people in open geospatial tools (QGIS, JOSM, ODK), has led crisis-response mapping in the DRC (COVID-19, conflict zones), and promotes inclusion and youth engagement within the African OSM community.
- Maps and Voices: Strengthening Women’s Participation in Open Mapping in the DRC

I am a dedicated GIS and open data enthusiast with a strong passion for open mapping and open datasets in the context of humanitarian development and urban resilience. Throughout my career, I have actively participated in numerous OMDTZ projects in Tanzania, contributing to data creation initiatives and ensuring high standards of data quality management. Additionally, I have gained experience in data visualization, analysis, map creation, and promoting map literacy to enhance evidence-based decision-making. Currently, I serve as a GIS and Data Manager at OpenMap Development Tanzania (OMDTZ). Previously, for a duration of six years starting in 2015, I played a key role in coordinating data collection processes and overseeing data quality management using open-source GIS tools for various projects within the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) and OpenMap Development Tanzania (OMDTZ) community in Tanzania.
- Closing the Feedback Loop: Do Communities Ever See the Maps?
Andreas is a data and energy systems modeller. A skilled environmental technology expert, software developer and grid mapper. He is the main integrator of the OhMyGrid tooling. Vast experience with marketing of climate related projects, and video editing. Founder of the ClimateClub, an educational Youtube channel on climate change and energy topics.
- MapYourGrid, an initiative to map the world's electrical grids
- Participatory Mapping on Flood Hazard and Vulnerability at Dutch Komenda, a Coastal Community in Ghana.

Asha Mustapher is a Community Engagement Lead at OpenMap Development Tanzania, specializing in community mapping, data collection, capacity building, and partnership using open source tools. She is passionate about empowering communities, training local communities and leaders on technology-driven data collection tools to enhance decision making. Through her work, Asha strives to foster innovation, youth development, and positive community impact.
- Centering Communities in Early Action Local Knowledge: Open Data, and OSM in Practice

Bapaala Alhassan Zuliatu is a student at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana, pursuing a BA in Geography and Rural Development. A YouthMappers Volunteer Regional Ambassador and 2024 YouthMappers Leadership Fellow, passionate about using geospatial technologies to address issues pertinent to sustainable development. She has served as Deputy Organizing Secretary and is currently the first Female Training coordinator of the KNUST YouthMappers chapter, where she plays a crucial role in its growth through various training programs, outreach activities, and collaborations with other chapters. She has led and participated in several impactful projects, including mapping and updating campus infrastructure and waste-collecting bins. She also took part in a mapping project organized by OpenStreetMap Ghana to enhance the data quality of Old Fadama in Accra, as well as a recent crop health analysis initiative designed to help farmers enhance agricultural productivity on her campus. She excelled in an inter-university mapping competition by Transform Transport, focused on cycling infrastructure in Ghana, ranking among the top seven participants. Her work has reached international audiences, as she has spoken at both the State of the Map Asia conference and the YouthMappers Africa Regional Virtual Conference. Through internships with MAP TECH Logistics, Action for Sustainable Development, and the Tumu Municipal Assembly, she has gained hands-on experience in GIS, remote sensing, team coordination, field data collection, and community engagement. She is committed to utilizing spatial data for inclusive development and social impact.
- The Role of OSM Data in Enhancing Cycling, an Environmentally Friendly Means of Transport

Benedcto Adamu is a GIS person, making significant contributions to the mapping community, proficiency in data collection, analysis, and visualization. His comprehensive understanding of GIS software and tools, along with spatial analysis and remote sensing expertise, allows him to solve complex geospatial challenges and provide valuable insights for decision-making.Benedcto dedicated to open-source mapping and passion for using geospatial technology to address real-world problems have garnered respect in the field, benefiting institutions and organizations relying on precise and up-to-date spatial data. I'm working as Associate GIS & Data Manager at OMDTZ.
- Cost-Effective Strategies for Expanding Open Mapping in Resource-using street level 360 Image

Binyam Dele is a passionate geospatial advocate and technology leader from Ethiopia. He serves as the Community Leader of OpenStreetMap Ethiopia, where he actively promotes open mapping for development, crisis response, and community empowerment. As an Alumni YouthMappers Regional Ambassador, Ben has mentored student chapters and led impactful mapping campaigns across East Africa.
He is also the founder of AmbaLay Maps, a homegrown African mapping service that provides localized geocoding, routing, and navigation APIs tailored to the region’s needs. Through his work, Ben is committed to building open, inclusive, and resilient digital infrastructure that connects people and drives sustainable progress across the continent.
- AmbaLay Maps: Building Africa’s Local Mapping Infrastructure for Resilient Services and Community Empowerment

Blessings Chiepa is a passionate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing specialist with over six years of experience in spatial analysis, data visualisation, and applying geospatial technologies to address real-world challenges across Africa. He holds an MSc in Geographical Information Management from Cranfield University, awarded through the prestigious Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship, and received the Esri UK Prize for excellence.
Blessings has supported evidence-based decision-making in disaster risk management, public health, and environmental planning through his work with organizations such as Médecins Sans Frontières and the United Nations Development Programme. He is proficient in tools including ArcGIS, QGIS, R, Python, and ERDAS Imagine.
Beyond his technical expertise, Blessings is a committed advocate for open mapping and community development. He co-chaired the inaugural State of the Map Malawi 2024, leads initiatives with OpenStreetMap Malawi, and serves on the Advisory Board of the Spatial Girls Network and the Board of Trustees for the Center for Governance and Leadership. His work focuses on empowering communities through open geospatial technologies and fostering inclusive, data-driven development across Malawi and beyond.
- Mapping Malawi’s Momentum: Reflections on first SoTM Malawi conference and Growing Open Mapping Communities

Boneya Hassan is a passionate Geospatial Analyst working at the intersection of open data, community mapping, and humanitarian response. He coordinates and manages initiatives that apply geospatial technologies to advance sustainable development and humanitarian response. Currently, Boneya works with the Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS), utilizing data and digital tools to build resilience within communities.
- Beyond Mapathons: Building a Mapping Community for Sustainable Impact

Calvin is a YouthMappers Volunteer Regional Ambassador who believes in thinking globally but acting locally to make an impact. He's a Mapillary enthusiast and also known among the YouthMappers Ghana community as a mentor and leader. Calvin had the opportunity to attend YouthMappers Leadership Summit, Jamaica 2023. "How man thinketh is who he is," is his favorite quote.
- Improving accessibility mapping in Upper East, Ghana using Mapillary and OpenStreetMap

Chifuniro Baluwa is a distinguished Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Specialist from Malawi with extensive expertise in geospatial data analysis, public health research, and environmental science. She holds a Master of Science in GIS with Distinction from the University of Leeds, United Kingdom, and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with Credit from Lilongwe University of Natural Resources (LUANAR).
Currently serving as a Pre-PhD Fellow at the Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Research Programme (MLW), Chifuniro focuses on developing computational skills in statistical modelling and data visualization while exploring data sources for public health interventions in both urban and rural settings. Her research contributes to scientific manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Chifuniro's professional journey includes significant roles with different organizations. As a Research Assistant at the MLW, she facilitated cholera hotspot mapping and developed fine-scale location datasets for Blantyre district. Her experience as a Geospatial Data Officer with UNICEF Malawi involved preparing and maintaining geospatial information to support country office programmes, UN agencies, NGOs, and the Malawi government.
Her technical expertise ranges from remote sensing, mobile data collection, GPS technology, R programming, and QGIS analysis. She has also completed specialized training in drone and data technology through the African Drone and Data Academy.
Chifuniro has contributed to several scientific publications, including research on health facility catchment areas, location data collection methodologies, and disease mapping studies published in prominent journals such as Communications Medicine and Scientific Reports.
She is an active member of professional associations including Women in GIS, Unmanned Vehicle Systems, and serves as a volunteer mapper for the Malawi OpenStreetMap Community. Chifuniro continues to advance geospatial science applications in public health and environmental research across Malawi.
- Low-Cost Participatory Mapping Using KoBo Toolbox, YouthMappers and Community Health Workers for Emergency Response

I am an Electronics and Telecommunications Engineer with a strong commitment to designing and deploying innovative, impactful technology solutions. I currently serve as the IoT and Drone Technology Manager at Mediabox Burundi, where I lead projects at the intersection of emerging technologies and sustainable development.
My multidisciplinary expertise spans several domains, including:
Residential and industrial electrical systems
Telecom BTS (Base Transceiver Station) deployment and optimization
Web application development and full-stack integration
IoT-based monitoring systems for agricultural irrigation, warehouse management, and security infrastructure
Vehicle tracking technologies, encompassing real-time GPS data acquisition, analytics, and platform integration
Drone technologies, including assembly, piloting, and advanced multispectral mapping
Embedded systems engineering for automation, environmental sensing, and control systems
I hold an ISO/IEC 27001 Lead Implementer certification, equipping me with the expertise to design and manage secure information systems in compliance with international standards.
I have developed a specialized focus in multispectral drone imaging and regularly conduct training programs in drone operations and IoT systems deployment. I am also actively involved in web platform integration and deployment, leveraging modern DevOps and DevSecOps practices to deliver secure, scalable, and resilient architectures.
My work is driven by a passion for harnessing technology to build smarter, more sustainable systems—especially in the fields of agriculture, mobility, and climate resilience.
- THE FORTE OF DRONE MAPPING TECHNOLOGY IN THE DISASTER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM CASE TANGANYIKA LAKE

Christiana Rosha is a passionate environmental advocate and project officer at Green Girls platform,an organization that works with girls and young women to address the unique challenges they face due to climate change in Malawi. Christiana has been implementing climate education programs that aims to amplify the voices of children, girls and young women In the fight against climate change .
- GIS in Climate Education; Using Mapping to Build Next Generation of Climate Change Leaders
I am a Geospatial Engineer in training and I am currently tinkering with GeoAI. I love Geospatial data and telling stories with it, especially through interactive story maps that highlight climate adaptation and mitigation efforts across Africa. Beyond the screen, I’m deeply involved in Kenya’s tech and geospatial communities, where I contribute by organizing events, writing technical content, and fostering partnerships and stakeholder engagement. I believe in the power of open data, open-source tools, and inclusive collaboration to drive sustainable development. When I'm not mapping or coding, you'll likely find me in a book club, where my latest obsession is Russian literature, or at a live music show. Whether through code, stories, or conversation, I’m always exploring new ways to connect people, places, and ideas.
- Building Smart Web Maps with OpenStreetMap: Integrating uMap, Overpass Turbo, and Open Data

Edith Kalagho is a Land Surveyor and Drone Pilot currently working with Drone Link Malawi. She is also the Co-Founder and Program Manager of Spatial Girls Network, which empowers girls and women in geospatial science and technology. Edith is passionate about learning and sharing knowledge that helps young women explore careers in geospatial science and technology.
- SPATIAL GIRLS NETWORK A PRODUCT OF OPEN MAPPING COMMUNITY

Detail-oriented data analyst with a strong foundation in data management, business intelligence, systems analysis and design, project evaluation, data collection, report writing, and GIS technologies. Experienced in conducting in-depth data analysis, cleaning, and visualization for data-driven decision-making.
Proficient in data reporting with a keen focus on protecting data privacy and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
Interested in data-based research to enhance informative reporting.
- Open Mapping and Open Tools for Climate Resilience
Elia Dominic Mwaisaka is a geospatial specialist and development practitioner with a strong focus on participatory mapping, sustainable water management, and urban resilience. He is affiliated with OpenMap Development Tanzania (OMDTZ), where he has contributed to several community-driven initiatives, including mapping irrigation systems and hydrological features within the Weruweru River Catchment in the Kilimanjaro Region. Elia combines the use of GPS technology, GIS tools, and satellite imagery to collect, analyze, and visualize data that inform policy and empower local communities. His work emphasizes inclusive data practices and the integration of traditional knowledge with modern mapping techniques to address environmental and infrastructural challenges. Elia’s contributions underscore the importance of accurate spatial data and community engagement in driving equitable development solutions across Tanzania.
- Bridging Gaps: Collaborative Mapping of Sub-Catchment Furrows for Improved Irrigation Planning

Emanuel Kombe is a highly skilled professional in geography and environmental studies, specializing in OpenStreetMap (OSM) as an advanced-level contributor, head of the GIS unit, and tech. With a passion for geospatial technology, he's made significant contributions to the mapping community, ensuring accuracy and usability.
As head of the GIS Unit, he leads successful initiatives, coordinates project managers, and the team ensures timely completion. His expertise extends to various GIS software and tools, solving complex challenges and providing valuable insights. Emanuel's dedication to open-source mapping and geospatial technology has earned him respect in the field and made a tangible impact on organizations relying on spatial data.
- Community-Driven Data: How Local Knowledge is Reshaping Urban Waste Systems

Hello! I am Ashok Thakulla, a geomatics engineer from Nepal. Additionally, I'm a YouthMappers Volunteer Regional Ambassador for the Asia Region 2025, an Open Mapping Guru, and a member of the USYC 2024 Cohort. I began my journey as a beginner mapper in 2020 and have since advanced to become an open mapping guru with over four years of experience in mapping and inspiring new mappers. I served as an Executive Committee member (2019-2020) and Vice President (2020-2021) of the Geomatics Engineering Society (GES), a student club and YouthMappers chapter within the Department of Geomatics Engineering at Kathmandu University. During my tenure, I gained valuable experience as a Program Coordinator for the "Mapping Chepang Communities" project and as a Mapathon Analyst for the Booster Grant project focused on "Mapping Banepa Municipality in OSM and Its Applications in Mitigating Effects of Urbanization – A Case Study of Urban Rooftop Farming." I have provided extensive training sessions for new mappers in Nepal, helping to foster the next generation of open mapping enthusiasts. In 2023, I was honored to be a YouthMappers Leadership Fellow and received the OSM Mapper of the Year award from the State of the Map Asia Community Awards. I’m So Excited as we gather at the State of the Map Africa to connect, learn, and celebrate our diverse cultures,
Let's remember that together, we have the power to transform our world through open mapping.
- From Mapper to Mentor: Building Resilient Communities through Youth-Led Open Mapping

I am a meticulous and adaptive Environmental Scientist and GIS Specialist with over 5 years of experience in spatial data analysis, remote sensing, and geospatial technology applications. I specialize in mapping, modeling, visualization, and training, strongly focusing on supporting data-driven environmental decision-making. As a co-founder of GeoTE Tanzania and former Regional Ambassador for YouthMappers, I am committed to advancing sustainable development through innovative geospatial solutions.
- Integrating OpenStreetMap into Academic Curricula through Collaborative Field Practical Training in Tanzania

A passionate and experienced GIS and Remote Sensing expert with a strong background in open mapping, environmental analysis, and spatial data science. Since 2020, I have been actively engaged in the OpenStreetMap (OSM) ecosystem and currently serve as the GIS & Open Mapping Manager at GeoTE - Tanzania. I have led numerous community mapping events, training sessions, and research projects aimed at integrating geospatial tools in academic and development contexts.
- Integrating OpenStreetMap into Academic Curricula through Collaborative Field Practical Training in Tanzania
- Mapping for Pangolin Protection: Using OpenStreetMap for Conservation in Tanzania

Geoffrey Kateregga is the Community Projects Lead at Humanitarian OpenStreetMap, where he empowers local communities to contribute to open mapping initiatives. A co-founder of the OpenStreetMap Uganda and OpenStreetMap Africa communities, he is dedicated to fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing within the open mapping movement across the African continent.
- Building Bridges, Not Silos: Unifying Community Engagement with HOT's 'Connect & Learn' Program

I am a Geomatic Engineer with over 10 years of experience in the geospatial field. Currently, I serve as the Community and Partnership Manager for Africa & the Middle East at TomTom, where I lead strategic collaborations with OpenStreetMap communities and local partners to enrich and localize map data across the region. My work bridges advanced geospatial technology with grassroots engagement, driving smarter, more inclusive mapping and contributing to sustainable development across diverse contexts.
- How TomTom is Partnering with OSM Communities to Build Better Maps in Africa
I'm Hemed Lungo, a passionate mapper and IT professional with a deep love for geospatial storytelling and cartography. I specialize in creating visually compelling maps using tools like QGIS, R, Python, Aerialod, and Blender—often blending analytical rigor with creative design. My work focuses on terrain modeling, land cover visualization, and thematic cartography, with a strong emphasis on African landscapes, particularly Tanzania and the broader East African region. I enjoy sharing my knowledge through tutorials, community projects, and social platforms, where I post map-making tips, 3D visualizations, and open-source contributions. Whether it's crafting a detailed terrain model of Ethiopia or experimenting with climate data in R, I find joy in helping others explore the world through spatial data. I’m driven by curiosity, aesthetics, and the belief that good maps tell powerful stories.
- Beyond Flat Maps:Using QGIS and Blender for 3-D Geovisualization

Hillary Musundi is an experienced IT Specialist and GIS expert based in Uganda. With over 7 years of working at the intersection of IT, GIS, and open data, he currently serves as an IT Officer at Namisindwa District Local Government and is the CEO of HikeHill Technologies, a company specializing in IT consultation, GIS services, and digital solutions. Hillary specializes in applying OpenStreetMap and geospatial tools for disaster response, planning, and community empowerment. A former OpenStreetMap Uganda Project Manager and YouthMappers mentor, he is passionate about advancing digital skills and open data solutions for development.
- From the Field to the Map: Strengthening Local Government Decision-Making Through Advanced OSM Mapping
Isah Abdul-Azeez is a Geospatial Machine Learning Engineer with a strong background in remote sensing, AI-driven analytics, and open-source geospatial technologies. His work focuses on designing intelligent, scalable solutions for agriculture, disaster risk management, and infrastructure mapping across underserved and data-scarce regions in Africa. With a multidisciplinary foundation in chemistry and environmental sciences, Isah blends scientific rigor with advanced geospatial and machine learning techniques to tackle real-world problems.
Over the past four years, he has led and contributed to projects that utilize Earth Observation data—ranging from optical to radar imagery—alongside platforms like OpenStreetMap to deliver actionable insights to local governments, NGOs, and rural communities. His tools have supported precision agriculture, flood monitoring, and road network expansion, impacting farmers across Nigeria and mapping thousands of square kilometers of terrain.
Isah is also an advocate for open data and reproducible science that democratize access to geospatial intelligence. He actively participates in humanitarian mapping, contributes to open-source projects, and mentors emerging data scientists and mappers.
Driven by a vision to empower African communities with data and intelligent automation, he continues to explore how technologies like Agentic AI can revolutionize the geospatial ecosystem and amplify local impact across the continent.
- Unlocking New Frontiers in Earth Observation: Harnessing Agentic AI to Revolutionize Geospatial Mapping in Africa

Ivan Buendía Gayton works at the nexus of humanitarianism, technology, and human rights. Prior to joining HOT in 2017, he worked for fifteen years with Médecins Sans Frontières in various capacities including Head of Mission, field logistician, Humanitarian Affairs Officer, and GIS and Technological Innovation Advisor, and served on the board of directors of MSF-Canada. He co-founded the Missing Maps project, worked on medical records for Ebola, and created the MapSwipe mobile mapping application. He is an advocate of Free Software, and considers it critical to racial justice and equity, particularly in the aid sector, and believes that “local people, local devices, and open knowledge” are key to effective humanitarian tech and inclusion. He works on local manufacturing of drones in low-income settings, and low-cost, high-precision surveying for community and smallholder land rights.
- Introduction to Drone Tasking Manager - A use case in Freetown, Sierra Leone.
I am a specialist in Geographic Information Technologies applied to spatial planning and environement, with solid experience in the collection, processing, and analysis of geospatial data, as well as in the mapping and georeferencing of geographic objects, with a special focus on urban collective equipment, road and pedestrian networks.
Mapper and OSM data user, since 2015.
Master's degree in Geographic Information Technologies - Spatial Planning and Environment, since 2019.
Doctoral Programme in Spatial Planning at the University of Coimbra, Portugal, since 2021.
Member of the OSM Africa Community since 2023.
Student Researcher at Center of Territory, Transport and Environment, since 2024.
- Collaborative Mapping for Urban Management in Moçâmedes, Angola: The Case of Praia Amélia Urbanisation.

John is the East Africa program manager for the Sentinel Project. In his role, he leads project teams in Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, overseeing the planning and implementation of various initiatives in these countries. John possesses over a decade of experience in project coordination and management, with a strong emphasis on humanitarian contexts and fragile environments. In 2018, John received recognition for his work when he won the Commonwealth Digital Challenge Award in the United Kingdom. His expertise in utilizing information and communication technology (ICT) for promoting peace has garnered attention on international platforms, where he has been invited to speak and write about this subject. John's academic achievements include a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Makerere University of Kampala, a Masters in Project Planning and Management from the University of Nairobi, and a Masters in Refugee Protection and Forced Migration from the University of London School of Advance Studies.
- Una Hakika: Adopting Open Technology for Peacebuilding in Kenya
Joseph Muyiwa Olumoyegun, is a trained Cartographer with National Diploma in Cartography, B.Sc.Geography, M.Sc. Cartography (Lagos), and currently a Ph.D student at Department of Geography, University of Ibadan.
Joseph Muyiwa Olumoyegun is currently a lecturer in Geography at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria specializing in Cartography, GIS, Remote Sensing, and Urban Studies. His research also focuses on various aspects of geography, including:
Urban Planning: He has studied the locational pattern of public educational facilities in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria, and explored geospatial techniques for cadastral mapping and revenue generation.
Environmental Studies: Olumoyegun has researched spatial and temporal variations in water quality, specifically in River Ogun, Abeokuta, Ogun State, and analyzed aeromagnetic data in southwestern Nigeria.
Health and Epidemiology: He has investigated spatiotemporal patterns and determinants of childhood road traffic morbidity and mortality in Nigeria.
Crime Analysis: Olumoyegun has also examined patterns, trends, and correlates of major reported crimes in Ondo State, Nigeria.
- Cartographic analysis of cultural significance of toponyms and positional accuracy of OpenStreetMap in Oyo State

Hey, I'm Joy Unene a final year and the University of Zambia, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Project Management and International Relations and the current president of the UNZA YouthMappers chapter in Zambia as well as a Volunteer YouthMappers' Regional Ambassador. I am passionate about leadership, education, and using geospatial tools to empower people and communities. I discovered YouthMappers in 2022 and it changed the way I see mapping as something beyond lines and dots on a screen, but as a tool for transformation. Through outreach activities and mentorship, I've worked with young learners and seen firsthand the magic that happens when they realize they can map their world. This will be my second time speaking at a State of the Map conference and I'd be delighted to present in person his time around. I am excited to share and learn with this amazing global community.
- Little Mappers, Big Impact: Introducing OSM to grade school learners

Hi, I'm Julian. Currently, I am the Product Owner for the Smart Mobility Research Area at the Heidelberg Institute for Geoinformation Technology (HeiGIT) and a proud new member of the OSM community in Germany.
Mobility research and development for humanitarian aid distribution and last-mile delivery are a passion for me and, together with a great Team, I have the privilege of managing and growing the open-source routing ecosystem openrouteservice.
- Adaptive Humanitarian Mobility: Dynamic OSM-Based Routing with Critical Mission Data

Boateng Kelvin is my name, a graduate Geomatic Engineer from the University of Mines and Technology, UMaT.
As a geospatial engineer enthusiast I would like to be involved in GIS and remote sensing projects to solve environmental concerns
QGIS|Arcgis|Google earth engine| R| Python| Autocad civil 3D| Open to learning new technologies and geospatial tools
- A Comparative Analysis of Land Surface Temperature Estimation Between the Dry and Wet Season
Kitgak Simon is a climate resilience researcher and renewable energy advocate with a background in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. His work focuses on the intersection of open geospatial data, sustainable development, and rural community empowerment. As the founder of Kitron Green Initiatives, he leads projects that utilize participatory mapping, agroecology, and open-source tools to support climate adaptation in underserved areas. He has contributed to environmental policy discussions across Africa, mentored youth in digital mapping, and participated in global platforms such as the UNEP Nitrogen Working Group and the Nigerian Energy Forum. Kitgak is passionate about leveraging data for social and environmental justice.
- Empowering Climate Resilience in Rural Nigeria through Open Mapping and Community-Led Geospatial Data Collection

Laura is a Geospatial engineer and technical community manager working at the intersection of open data, free and open-source software, and sustainable development. With a commitment to building for impact, she harnesses the power of communities to drive positive change. Currently, Laura is an Implementation Officer at Ushahidi, where she leads the implementation of the African Union Civic Tech Fund and partner climate projects. She previously worked at Code for Africa, leading community and project activities for africanDRONE and sensors.AFRICA; initiatives that are pioneering the use of drones and sensors for climate change & deforestation monitoring, and water & air quality pollution detection in African cities.
Additionally, Laura is an active volunteer and enjoys giving back to the tech community. She has been a YouthMappers regional ambassador for the past four years, supporting student-led and faculty-mentored university clubs in East and Central Africa. She also co-created OSM Kenya, advocating for the adoption of open data locally.
- Can You Build OSM Communities Without Burning Out?
- OSMF: What it is, What it does, How YOU can get involved

Hi im Levi,
I did my Msc. in Geoinformatics at the University of Heidelberg, Germany. Already during my time as a student I worked at HeiGIT on open-source applications from and for OSM. Since 2025 I have been working at HeiGIT as a developer and researcher at the intersection of geographic information science and humanitarian applications, contributing to free, open-source geoinformation systems for environmental and societal benefit. The focus of my work is on quality assessments of OSM data. In recent years, my research focus has shifted to deep-learning solutions for solid waste detection.
- From street-view-imagery to actionable data: experiences from mapping waste in Dar es Salaam
- Adaptive Humanitarian Mobility: Dynamic OSM-Based Routing with Critical Mission Data
- New insights into global mapping with the updated ohsomeNow Stats

My name is Benjamin Makumbi, a 22-year-old from Uganda, and a proud high school graduate with a deep desire to uplift communities through education, innovation, and human-centered development. Growing up in a rural area where access to opportunities was limited, I witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by people in underserved areas—especially in health, education, and social support. These challenges shaped my commitment to becoming part of the solution.
I am passionate about creating change through knowledge. I believe that with the right education and skills, I can help build systems that empower others and create lasting impact. I aspire to pursue studies in fields like human sciences, health, or global development—areas where I can combine empathy, research, and practical solutions.
Beyond academics, I enjoy swimming and playing chess. These activities not only keep me active but also sharpen my focus and problem-solving skills.
My journey is fueled by purpose, and I believe this is just the beginning of a life dedicated to service, leadership, and transformation.
- Mapping for Maternal Health Using Open StreetMap to improve Access to care in Rural Uganda
Maurine Oyugi is a Geomatics Engineer and GIS Consultant based in Nairobi, Kenya. She currently consults with Planate Management Group and serves as a Regional Ambassador for YouthMappers. With over five years of experience in geospatial data collection, mapping, and community engagement, Maurine has led and supported projects across Africa, collaborating with organizations such as Digital Earth Africa, the Red Cross, and the Clinton Health Access Initiative. She specializes in using open-source tools like QGIS, QField, and OpenStreetMap to solve local challenges, particularly in underserved areas. As a young mother and advocate for inclusive mapping, she is passionate about using spatial data to empower women, support childcare access, and drive evidence-based decision-making at the grassroots level.
- Mapping Day-care Facilities to Support Working Parents: A Community Mapping Initiative in Makongeni, Kenya

Melanie Eckle-Elze is an experienced OpenStreetMap (OSM) contributor, humanitarian mapper, and Research Assistant at the Heidelberg Institute for Geoinformation Technology (HeiGIT). In her role focused on Partner Engagement, she connects research, operational partners, and the open data community to support humanitarian and development efforts through geospatial innovation.
Melanie began mapping in 2012 and discovered her passion for humanitarian mapping while working with Kathmandu Living Labs in Nepal in 2013. She co-founded disastermappers heidelberg and has since organized numerous mapathons and workshops to promote open mapping and disaster preparedness.
She is the Product Owner of the Sketch Map Tool, Missing Maps focal point at HeiGIT, and focal point for the IFRC GIS Training Platform, where she supports capacity building and knowledge exchange with Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Her work focuses on the use and creation of open data with a strong focus on OSM data and applied geoinformation systems for disaster management, anticipatory action, and humanitarian response.
Melanie is particularly interested in participatory and locally led mapping approaches, ensuring communities are not just mapped but actively involved in the process. She served on the HOT Board of Directors (2018–2019) and continues to support open, inclusive, and impactful mapping.
- Sketch Map Tool: Enabling the capture of local knowledge- supported by OSM analytics and AI
- Empowering Humanitarians with GIS: A Collaborative Approach through the IFRC GIS Training Platform

Micheal Kaluba is a Field Mapping and GIS Training Associate at OpenStreetMap Uganda and an active member of the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda. He is passionate about using open data and collaborative technologies to map and document local knowledge, cultural heritage, and public resources across Uganda. He has been part of the OpenStreetMap community close to 10 years
- Bridging Knowledge and Maps: The Intersection of Wikimedia and OpenStreetMap in Africa

Michelle Schmitz, MSPH, is a senior consultant with DevGlobal with 10+ years of geospatial analysis, epidemiology, global health, and technical consulting expertise. As a former data scientist, informatics consultant and research fellow with both federal and intergovernmental organizations, she has leveraged her technical background to help guide philanthropic foundation clients towards robust, data-driven solutions across a wide variety of geospatial and programmatic domains. She has avidly followed the OpenStreetMap community since 2015.
- An Application of OpenStreetMap to Identify Underserved Populations for a Study in Lagos State, Nigeria

Mikko Tamura is a community builder, humanitarian mapper, and advocate for inclusive geospatial leadership across the Global South. Based in the Philippines, Mikko leads community engagement for the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) in the Asia-Pacific, where he supports grassroots mappers, youth leaders, and civil society partners to use open mapping for climate action, disaster response, and community development.
He is the founder of MapBeks, an award-winning volunteer mapping group that champions LGBTQIA+ visibility and public health through data. Under his leadership, MapBeks launched the Philippines' first crowdsourced maps of HIV facilities and LGBTQIA+ safe spaces—putting historically excluded communities on the map. Mikko was recognized as the Gender Equity and Inclusion Champion at the World Geospatial Awards in 2022, and is the first Filipino to win the Distinction Award at the ASEAN Geospatial Challenge.
Mikko currently coordinates the Open Mapping Gurus, a regional network of emerging leaders across Asia-Pacific trained to support local mapping initiatives, lead community outreach, and respond to urgent mapping needs. In 2024, he helped initiate the expansion of the Guru model into Africa, building cross-regional connections and mentorship opportunities between African and Asian mappers.
Passionate about youth empowerment and sustainability, Mikko designs programs like the Climate Resilience Fellowship, a training and seed grant program that brings together young people from informal settlements to tackle local climate issues using open data.
At SOTM Africa, Mikko is eager to listen, learn, and co-create with African mappers, and to share practical insights on growing resilient, inclusive, and leader-driven mapping communities. His vision: a future where local mappers are not just participants in open data ecosystems, but recognized strategists, storytellers, and system-changers.
- Growing the Open Mapping Gurus: Expanding Local Leadership Across Regions
Consultant et formateur en suivi-évaluation. je suis géographe de formation, spécialisé en gestion des systèmes d'information.
Fort d’une solide expérience dans le pilotage de projets et l’analyse des données, j’accompagne les organisations dans la conception, la mise en œuvre et l’optimisation de leurs dispositifs de suivi-évaluation.
Je poursuis actuellement un doctorat en sciences de gestion, ce qui renforce mon approche analytique et stratégique dans l’accompagnement des programmes et politiques de développement.
- Session de formation sur la prise en main du logiciel Qgis
Msilikale Msilanga is a PhD researcher at the University of Turku’s Department of Geography and Geology, focusing on digital geospatial research and community mapping with free and open-source software (FOSS). Since 2011, he has led World Bank-supported urban resilience mapping initiatives in Tanzania and across Africa for disaster risk management. He manages the Resilience Academy, a collaboration that enhances geospatial and ICT education, promotes data sharing, and supports youth employability. For over seven years, he has been coordinating its implementation with five Tanzanian universities, including the University of Dar es Salaam, Ardhi University, State University of Zanzibar, Sokoine University of Agriculture, and Moshi Cooperative University, together with partner universities in Finland. His doctoral research focuses on Urban Resilience in African Cities through Geospatial Data-Driven Solutions and Decision-Making.
- Data Visualization Challenge for improved Climate-Resilient Urban Water Management in Tanzanian Cities
I am an Data and Energy System Modeller who is very passionate about open source and and open data Having worked years in this space I am eager to contribute and grow the open source community to what it can truly be, the only reliable pillar of society.
In this capacity I have worked on exciting projects as part of the OhMyGrid initiative to lower the barrier of entry for new mappers getting into grid mapping. I have also co-engineered pioneering tools that help speed uo the mapping process significantly through the creation of hint layers which can be utilised by new and seasoned mappers alike.
- Power to the People: How Africa Can Drive Its Own Clean Energy Transition

Nisreen Mahmoud is a GIS and Remote Sensing Expert with a specialization in environmental analysis, post-conflict assessment, and urban resilience. Graduated as a Surveying Engineer, she integrates advanced geospatial techniques using platforms such as ArcGIS Pro, Google Earth Engine, QGIS, and Python to support data-driven decision-making.
Nisreen’s recent work centers on mapping land use and land cover changes, assessing environmental damage from conflict, and guiding sustainable reconstruction planning—particularly in Khartoum, Sudan. She actively engages in open mapping initiatives, KRI OSM Sudan, using OpenStreetMap for humanitarian purposes, infrastructure analysis, and collaborative data validation.
In addition to her technical expertise, Nisreen is a strong advocate for geospatial storytelling and community engagement. She leads the podcast "البيئة تحكي" (The Environment Speaks), which highlights environmental challenges and innovations across the Arab world.
- OpenStreetMap for Conflict Response and Urban Resilience in Sudan

Nwosu Obinna Chikezie Victor is a multidisciplinary researcher and geospatial technology enthusiast with expertise in geophysics, environmental science, artificial intelligence, and open mapping. Holding an MSc in Environmental Technology from Teesside University (UK) and currently pursuing a PhD in Environmental Sciences at the University of South Africa remotely/virtually, his work bridges the gap between academia and practical applications of geospatial data for sustainable development.
With a strong technical background in machine learning, data analysis, and GIS tools, Victor has contributed to projects leveraging AI for disaster resilience, climate adaptation, and community-driven mapping. His research includes AI-assisted seismic interpretation, flood risk modelling, and optimising construction productivity through geospatial automation—topics he has published on in peer-reviewed journals.
Beyond research, Victor is passionate about education and community empowerment. As an online tutor and former Cisco Networking instructor, he trains students in geosciences, programming, and 4IR technologies. He actively mentors youth in STEM and advocates for inclusive participation in open mapping initiatives. His leadership roles—from coordinating academic elections to organising student congresses—reflect his commitment to collaborative problem-solving.
Victor’s career spans industry and academia, including roles in civil enforcement, renewable energy (solar technology), and peer review for scientific journals like IGI Global. A lifelong learner, he holds certifications in AI, blockchain, and agile methodologies, underscoring his belief in technology’s role in solving Africa’s pressing environmental and infrastructural challenges.
At State of the Map Africa 2025, he aims to share insights on AI-OSM integration for humanitarian response while learning from the continent’s vibrant mapping community.
- Enhancing Community Resilience and Disaster Preparedness through AI-Assisted Open Mapping in Underserved African Regions

Olumide S. Ogungbemi is a Geospatial Intelligence Analyst, Humanitarian Data Scientist, and Global Health Specialist with experience in geospatial analysis, humanitarian data visualisation, field research and reporting. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Geography from the University of Lagos, Nigeria and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Geography and Geospatial Science at Oregon State University, USA. Olumide is actively engaged in the space and geospatial community through his involvement with the Environmental System Research Institute(ESRI) representative in Nigeria and remote Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) engagement. He has contributed significantly to local organising efforts for key African space and GIS events, including the ESRI GIS Days and Africa Space Generation Workshop (AF-SGW) 2024, where he supported stakeholder engagement by submitting partnership proposals to UN agencies, the ECOWAS Commission, and USAID. In 2023, Olumide served on the Local Organising Committee for SG[Nigeria], participating in two project groups focused on leveraging space technologies for public security and utilizing satellite imagery and remote sensing for flood mapping and control in Nigeria. As a speaker at the SGAC 2022 webinar, Olumide presented on the “Impact of Satellite Imagery on Medical Practice,” highlighting the application of geospatial solutions in healthcare. He is the Co-founder of AGAPE Global Health and Education (AGHE), a non-profit organisation dedicated to addressing child community issues through programmes and research that improve access to healthcare and education
- Mapping Amid Crisis: Connecting Displaced Communities and Humanitarian Responders Through Open Mapping in Northeast Nigeria

Michael Osunga Otieno is a seasoned Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) analyst with extensive experience in digital mapping, data analysis, and implementing innovative GIS solutions across various sectors. Holding a Master of Science degree in Geospatial Information Systems and Remote Sensing from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, and a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from Kenyatta University, Michael has dedicated his career to leveraging geospatial technologies for humanitarian and developmental purposes.
Michael’s expertise extends to using advanced GIS tools and technologies to collect, analyse, and disseminate geospatial data. His contributions have led to the development of dashboards, interactive maps, and other information management products that inform decision-making in areas such as urban planning, disaster preparedness, and public health.
A committed advocate for open data and community-driven mapping, Michael has also played a key role in empowering local stakeholders, including community members, NGOs, and government agencies, with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively use open geospatial tools and data in solving local challenges.
His research and technical publications further underscore his commitment to advancing the field of open geospatial science for the betterment of communities across Africa.
- Understanding barriers to accessibility for persons with disabilities in Freetown's informal settlements, Sierra Leone
- Visualizing Air Pollution and Health Risks in Lagos with R Shiny

A B.Tech graduate of Remote Sensing and GIS from the Federal University of Technology, Akure. My research interests focus on spatio-temporal analysis, environmental change detection, and geospatial applications for sustainable development. I'm committed to using geospatial knowledge and tools to contribute meaningfully to the community and broader society.
- Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Land Use/Land Cover Changes and its Impact on Water Quality

IVIDES DATA Owner (IT Consulting) - https://ivides.org/servicos. Chairwoman of the Virtual Institute for the Sustainable Development - IVIDES.org. Post Doctorate at UFRJ. D.Sc. in Geography by the Postgraduate Program in Geography of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). Master in Population Studies and Social Research by the National School of Statistical Sciences (ENCE-IBGE). Bachelor in Oceanography from the State University of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ). Associated Professor at the Laboratory of Cartography - GeoCart/UFRJ. Editor for the Brazilian Portuguese in the weeklyOSM. Parecerist for 12 scientific journals and member of the editorial committee of two other. Main areas of activity: software development for Web mapping, PPGIS, PGIS, collaborative and participatory mapping, OpenStreetMap, Geoprocessing, Integrated Coastal and Marine Management, Sustainability Indicators, Population Studies and Oceanography.
- weeklyOSM-stats: Analysis of the weeklyOSM profile over the last ten years with PostgreSQL
- Collaborative mapping for DRR with OpenStreetMap, uMap and WordPress. Case study: Maricá (Brazil)

I am a happy, people-centered person with a passion for maps and the power of open geospatial data to drive meaningful change. I find joy in teaching communities especially youth how to use geospatial tools to better understand their surroundings and advocate for local community needs. Whether it's through hands-on mapping sessions or digital training workshops, I aim to share practical skills that help others grow professionally and contribute to their local development.
My work is grounded in the belief that access to open data can support stronger, more resilient communities. I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse volunteer groups, guiding them to use tools like OpenStreetMap (OSM) for everything from disaster preparedness to other humanitarian actions . I thrive on collaboration, love meeting new people, and value the energy that comes from shared learning and mutual respect.
Networking is more than a skill, it’s a core part of how I build relationships across regions and organizations. I enjoy connecting with others who share an interest in using mapping for social impact, and I’m always excited to exchange knowledge, ideas, and experiences.
Above all, I map in solidarity with communities, because I believe in local leadership, open knowledge, and the transformative potential of data.
- Self-Paced Open Mapping Learning Pathway for Youth Leadership and Community-Driven Development in LearnWorld

i am Salvation Pere Okoh an aspiring geospatial enthusiast and dedicated student, i am a student of Geography and Environmental Management studying in the university of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. I am currently serving my internship training with the unique mappers network, Nigeria, immersed in the world of geospatial data prominent organization fostering community-driven mapping efforts. my involvement in OpenStreetMap (OSM) reflects my passion for leveraging technology to address local challenges, such as flood mapping and urban development, contributing to humanitarian and developmental goals in Nigeria.
- Open Mapping Initiative in Nigeria: Challenges and Personal Experiences in Volunteer Mobilization for OpenStreetMap
Sanaa Benhamouche is a young Algerian woman, architect, researcher, and social entrepreneur. She holds a Ph.D. in Architecture and Urbanism from EPAU, Algiers (2024-2025), where her research focused on women’s spatial conviviality and participatory mapping. She also earned a Master’s degree in Sustainable Architecture (2016) from the University of Blida, and a Master’s in Science Journalism (2019) from ENSJSI. In 2022, she expanded her international research experience as a visiting researcher at UPM Madrid.
Sanaa is a co-founder of Medina School and Medina E-learning Platform for Interior Design and Architecture. She also serves as the Communication Manager at the International Network of Algerian Scientists (INAS), promoting scientific outreach and collaboration. Her interests include social entrepreneurship, e-learning, writing, and Islamic arts.
- Participatory Mapping for Women-Friendly Cities in Algeria: Lessons from the Madinatouha Project

An OSM contributor (SeverinGeo) since January 2010, Séverin has been implementing programs to create and support OSM communities in the South, training in OSM and free geomatics, and mapping territories in over 20 countries since 2011, first with HOT and then through the collective that has become Les Libres Géographes, of which he is one of the founders. He was also a member of the UN Mappers Crowdsourcing team between 2021 and 2024, in particular in charge of educational activities and content creation for the UN Maps Learning Hub. Volunteering for WeeklyOSM and the OSMF blog.
- OSM Skeleton: Completing the Backbone of OSM Data
- Mapping Smart Cities: Python-Powered Urban Insights with OSMnx
The State of the Map Africa (SotM Africa) is a bi-annual regional conference that celebrates the culture of open mapping, open data, GIS and its impact across Africa. The first SotM Africa conference was hosted by the OSM community in Uganda in 2017.
This year’s conference in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania will continue to build on the strategy envisioned for OpenStreetMap in Africa as a renewed, strong, and growing network, and as part of the global OpenStreetMap and Open GIS movement
- Self Organized Sessions
- Growing the Open Mapping Gurus: Expanding Local Leadership Across Regions
- OSMF: What it is, What it does, How YOU can get involved

Steve Coast is a pioneering geographer and technologist whose vision sparked the creation of OpenStreetMap in 2004, transforming the way people everywhere access and contribute to map data. With a background in geography and a passion for open data, he built a global volunteer community that now powers mapping projects in hundreds of countries, enabling everything from disaster response to urban planning. Steve has since guided teams at the intersection of mapping and mobility, championing solutions that put local knowledge first and ensure that anyone—whether in a remote village or a bustling city—can both use and improve the maps they rely on.
- Smarter Map Making: How GrabMaps uses OSM to make better maps!

A Climate Change and Geospatial Science Professional, working with Trocaire Malawi as a Programme Officer for Resilience and Livelihood, fostering nature-based solution systems and disaster resilience programming for communities vulnerable to climate change impacts. I have over five years’ experience in climate resilience and livelihood programming, and humanitarian openstreet mapping. I have extensive research Knowledge in climate finance, agriculture, natural resources management and applications of geography in preventing environmental risks. As a Programme officer with Trocaire Malawi, I provide strategic nexus between climate resilience and livelihood by working with 16 local partner organizations to enhance community-led approaches in sustainable agriculture practices, community natural resource management, social security measures, and social entrepreneurship, by working with over 100,000 households in southern Malawi, that have either been displaced or forced to adapt within an ecosystem frequently prone to disasters such as floods and drought, in districts of Nsanje, Chikwawa, Balaka, Zomba, Machinga and Phalombe. At global level, I am the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) expert reviewer, where I review reports submitted by both developed and developing nations on how they are emitting greenhouse gases and efforts undertaken to reduce them. I also review the tracking of climate mitigation and adaptation plans undertaken by countries. I am a member of the global coordination team on policy of the constituency of youth and children to UNFCCC, developing and presenting youth statements and positions in relation to policy frameworks surrounding UNFCCC process. With an extensive OpenStreetMap volunteering background spanning over seven years, I volunteer with OpenStreetMap Malawi to advance geospatial industry in Malawi.
- GIS in Climate Education; Using Mapping to Build Next Generation of Climate Change Leaders
- Facing the Future: Potentials of OSM Africa in Advancing Geospatial Science
Tombolaza Canut filamant est chercheur en sciences géospatiales et cartographie participative à l’Université de Toamasina à Madagascar, spécialisé dans l’analyse de la qualité des données géographiques ouvertes et le développement de méthodologies adaptées aux contextes insulaires africains.
Doctorant en géomatique appliquée au développement territorial, il mène depuis 2022 des recherches sur l’évaluation et l’amélioration des données OpenStreetMap dans la région de l’océan Indien occidental. Ses travaux portent particulièrement sur l’intégration des savoirs géographiques traditionnels malgaches dans les plateformes de cartographie collaborative et le développement d’outils d’évaluation de qualité adaptés aux spécificités insulaires.
- Évaluation de la Qualité et des Patterns de Contribution OpenStreetMap à Madagascar

Tommy Charles is an open mapping enthusiast with strong interests in drone technology and open source geospatial technology. He is a YouthMappers alumni and served as the network's ambassador in Sierra Leone and Liberia from 2020 to 2022. He is a HOT Voting member and has been working with the team to develop open mapping methodologies with the use of emerging technologies. He is currently the National Coordinator of OpenStreetMap Sierra Leone and Founder of the Sierra Leone Open Mapping Initiative.
- Introduction to Drone Tasking Manager - A use case in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

Je suis Ingénieur des Eaux, Forêts et Environnement fraichement diplômé. J'utilise les SIG depuis 3 ans maintenant et c'est une véritable passion pour moi. Je réfléchis constamment à comment les SIG et la télédétection peuvent me permettre d'être utile à ma communauté.
Je suis co-auteur d'un article qui a pour thème impact des facteurs anthropiques et climatiques sur la dynamique spatio-temporelle des mangroves dans la zone humide de grand Bassam dans le sud-est de la côte d'Ivoire.
- Inondations Zéro Risque en Afrique

Umar Katongole is a Ugandan scholar and youth leader deeply engaged in geospatial technology, innovation, and community development. Born on October 28, 2002, he is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Land Surveying and Geomatics at Makerere University, one of Africa’s leading institutions. His academic journey began at Kibuli Secondary School, where he earned both his Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) and Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE).
A dynamic and proactive individual, Umar has taken on multiple leadership roles throughout his academic career. At Makerere University, he served as Vice President and now President of the Geo Youth Mappers and Speaker for the Makerere Association of Surveying Students. He is also Chairman of the Mitchellex Muslim Union and Class Representative for the Land Surveying and Geomatics program. His earlier leadership roles include serving as House Prefect at Kibuli Secondary School and Youth Representative for Busiro County in the National Youth Parliament.
Umar has accumulated valuable work experience through internships and part-time roles, including parcel mapping at Naviloca Consult, field mapping for the Spotlight Kampala Project, and business operations at Black Sapphire Group in the real estate sector. His professional interests lie at the intersection of geospatial analysis, artificial intelligence, environmental sustainability, and community impact.
He is a recipient of several accolades, including recognition at the COP28 Essay Writing Competition and participation in high-impact initiatives like the African Green Leaders Summit, Geo Youth Mappers Gender-Based Violence Mapathon, and the National Science Week. Umar is multilingual, fluent in both English and Luganda, and possesses a range of skills such as content creation, team leadership, and data sensitivity.
With a keen interest in continuous learning and professional development, Umar Katongole is poised to make significant contributions in geospatial technology, environmental advocacy, and youth empowerment across Africa.
- Exploring the use of Earth Observation Data in Mapping Plastic Pollution in Urban Environments

Dr. Victor Ndubuisi Sunday, Ph.D.
Senior Lecturer | Geospatial & Environmental Consultant | Founder, Unique Mappers Network | Fellow, Institute of Certified Geographers of Nigeria
Dr. Victor Ndubuisi Sunday is an internationally recognized leader in Geospatial Information Science, Environmental Resilience, and Citizen-Led Mapping. With over two decades of experience in academia, consultancy, and grassroots innovation, he leverages geospatial technologies to advance sustainable development, disaster risk reduction, and youth empowerment.
He serves as Senior Lecturer in the Department of Geography & Environmental Management at the University of Port Harcourt and Adjunct Lecturer at Rivers State University. His expertise spans GIS, Remote Sensing, Cartography, Environmental Management, Citizen Science, and OpenStreetMap Science, integrating advanced research with impactful community projects.
Leadership & Key Roles
Founder & National Coordinator, Unique Mappers Network – Nigeria’s foremost OSM-driven civic mapping organization.
National Coordinator, Institute of Certified Geographers of Nigeria.
Chair, State of the Map Nigeria; Chair, Scientific Committee, State of the Map Africa.
Project lead on initiatives such as GIS Mapping of Opobo War Canoe Houses, Drone Mapping of Ogrute, Stall Catchers Alzheimer’s Research, Niger Delta Land Pollution Lookout, and Microsoft/HOT-USA 38M Building Footprint Mapping.
Academic Credentials
Ph.D., Geoinformatics & Surveying – University of Nigeria, Nsukka
M.Sc., Cartography & Geoinformation Science – AFRIGIST, Ile-Ife
M.Phil., Environmental Management – Rivers State University
B.Sc., Geography – University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Global Impact
Dr. Sunday has collaborated with NASA GLOBE, SciStarter-USA, and GODAN, and secured grants from HOT-USA, Healthy Gulf-USA, among others. He has earned international fellowships to Rwanda, Italy, Romania, and Ghana, and is listed in the World Scientist Ranking 2024 (AD Scientific Index).
Technical Expertise
ArcGIS | QGIS | ENVI | ERDAS | Drone Mapping | KoboToolbox | Spatial Analysis | SDG Monitoring
📧 victor.sunday@uniport.edu.ng | victor.n.sunday@gmail.com
🔗 Google Scholar | 🔗 LinkedIn
- Open Mapping Initiative in Nigeria: Challenges and Personal Experiences in Volunteer Mobilization for OpenStreetMap
En tant que Président de l'association GeOsm, je pilote le développement et la mise en œuvre de solutions géospatiales innovantes. Notre mission chez GeOsm est de valoriser les données d'OpenStreetMap (OSM) en les rendant plus accessibles, structurées et exploitables pour les organisations, les collectivités et les développeurs. Nous transformons la richesse des données OSM en services et applications à forte valeur ajoutée.
- GeOsm : Le Cœur Battant des Communautés OpenStreetMap Africaines et au-delà !

Wonderful Idrissah Kunje is a seasoned Information Management and Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) professional with over a decade of experience in data systems, GIS, disaster preparedness, and humanitarian operations. Currently serving as the PMER Coordinator at the Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS), Wonderful has played a pivotal role in strengthening data driven decision making, developing robust monitoring frameworks, and supporting anticipatory action initiatives to enhance emergency preparedness and response.
He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Information Technology from Zanzibar University and is currently pursuing a Master's in Management Information Systems at the Malawi Institute of Management. His technical expertise spans data analysis, GIS (QGIS), remote sensing, Power BI, KoboToolbox, and multiple programming languages including Python and Java.
Wonderful has worked with various humanitarian organizations including the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and UNHCR, where he contributed to data management, mapping, and emergency coordination efforts. His contributions in anticipatory action, especially using community led mapping and satellite data to identify flood prone areas, have helped shape effective and timely disaster responses in Malawi.
He is a certified Data Protection Officer in Humanitarian Action and has completed numerous professional courses in information management, disaster risk reduction, cybersecurity, and GIS. Beyond his core roles, he is also a drone operator trained in emergency UAV deployments and has a passion for teaching digital tools and systems.
Outside his humanitarian work, Wonderful is also the Quality Manager at Career Plus Training and Consultancy, where he leads training on ICT, design, and data tools. His blend of technical and humanitarian experience makes him a strong advocate for the use of open data and local knowledge in disaster risk reduction and climate resilience planning.
- Anticipatory Action in Practice: Mapping Vulnerability and Triggering Early Cash Disbursement in Malawi

Yves holds a Master's degree in Environmental Sciences. Since 2019 he has been a member of OpenStreetMap where he contributes to community engagement through training on mapping on OSM, translating content to limit language barriers, organizing webinars and participating in programs such as the Community Working Group Mentorship Programm which he coordinates for this cohort.
- Empowering & emergence of new leaders within global communities through the Community Working Mentorship Program

Zaina Rashidi Ally holds a diploma in Community Development from Jomo Kenyatta University and previously studied Law at the Open University of Tanzania. She began mapping in 2017 through the Ramani Huria initiative and has since been active in OpenStreetMap, leading trainings, joining mapathons, and volunteering with OpenMap Development Tanzania. At (OMDTZ), she worked on multiple community mapping projects, including data collection using tools like ODK. Zaina has mapped over 8,000 km of roads in 15+ regions and is passionate about using maps to drive community development and impact.
- Mapping with Communities: Driving Local Solutions through Participation in Tanzania