2025-11-28 –, Audition Room - 1st Floor Language: English
OpenMap Development Tanzania (OMDTZ) undertook a participatory mapping initiative in the Weruweru River Catchment, Kilimanjaro region, to enhance sustainable water management through detailed GIS analysis. Collaborating with the Weruweru Water Users Association (WUA), the project aimed to develop comprehensive maps of the catchment's hydrological features, including irrigation furrows and water abstraction points. Utilizing Android-based GPS devices, satellite imagery, and traditional surveying methods, field teams collected data on furrow dimensions and infrastructure conditions. GIS software facilitated the analysis, revealing critical issues such as blockages, leaks, and erosion. This approach not only improved the accuracy of water resource data but also empowered local communities by enhancing their capacity to manage and make informed decisions about their water resources. The project's success underscores the importance of community engagement and accurate data in developing equitable and sustainable water distribution policies. It serves as a replicable model for other sub-catchments facing similar challenges, highlighting the value of participatory mapping in environmental management.
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.