Summary of the Final Day at the 2024 RIC and AfriGEO Symposium

The final day of the 2024 RCMRD International Conference and AfriGEO Symposium continued the robust discussions and activities centred on leveraging Earth Observation (EO) for sustainable development in Africa. The day’s events were comprehensive, covering various topics through keynote addresses, panel discussions, thematic presentations, and specialised training sessions.

Keynote Address

The day commenced with a keynote address by Ms Salome Owuonda from the Africa Centre for Sustainable and Inclusive Development (Africa CSID). Her presentation, “Opportunities for EO in Gender Equality, Social Inclusion, and Development,” provided a deep dive into how EO technologies can be pivotal in advancing gender equality and tackling social inclusion challenges on the African continent. Ms Owuonda underscored the importance of using EO to generate data-driven insights that can guide policies and strategies to promote inclusive development. She discussed the potential of EO to identify disparities in resource allocation, monitor the effectiveness of gender-focused interventions, and support the empowerment of marginalised communities. By integrating EO into the development framework, Ms Owuonda argued, African nations can make more informed decisions that contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society.

Panel Session on the Final Day of the 2024 RIC and AfriGEO Symposium: Global Utilisation of EO

Following the keynote, a high-profile panel session focused on EO’s global development utilisation. Moderated by Njeri Maina, Director of Business & Partnerships at DEN, the session featured distinguished panellists who shared insights on how EO is being used to drive development initiatives worldwide:

• Marco Massabo (UNDRR) addressed the critical role of Earth Observation (EO) in disaster risk reduction. He elaborated on global best practices in utilising EO for disaster management, focusing on early warning systems, rapid response mechanisms, and long-term recovery efforts. In addition, Massabo emphasised how these practices can be adapted and applied within the African context to enhance resilience against natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and storms. He highlighted the importance of integrating EO data into national disaster management frameworks to improve preparedness and mitigate risks across the continent.
• Theresia Bilola (KADI) provided an in-depth analysis of climate services derived from African observation and data infrastructure. She underscored the significance of localised EO data in enhancing climate resilience, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate change impacts. Bilola’s presentation focused on how tailored EO solutions can support communities in adapting to climate variability and extremes by providing accurate, real-time data for decision-making. She also discussed the role of EO in informing climate policies and strategies that address the unique challenges faced by African nations.
• Dr Nale Mudau (SANSA, South Africa) offered insights into South Africa’s Earth Observation initiatives, detailing how EO is being leveraged to support the country’s national development goals. Dr Mudau highlighted key projects utilising EO for urban planning, natural resource management, and environmental monitoring. She emphasised the role of EO in addressing socio-economic challenges, such as land degradation, water scarcity, and sustainable agriculture, thereby contributing to South Africa’s broader development agenda. Dr Mudau also discussed the importance of regional collaboration in sharing EO data and expertise to tackle common challenges across Africa.
• Dr Yamamoto Kohei (PASCO, Japan) presented Japan’s advancements in EO technologies and their contributions to global EO efforts. Dr. Kohei provided examples of how Japan has successfully integrated EO into various sectors, including disaster management, agriculture, and urban planning. He highlighted Japan’s experience with advanced EO technologies, such as high-resolution satellite imaging and data analytics, and how these technologies can be adapted for use in other regions, including Africa. Dr. Kohei also emphasised the importance of international cooperation in advancing EO capabilities globally, sharing knowledge, and building capacity in developing regions.
• Sven Gilliams (GEOGLAM, Switzerland) focused on the impact of EO on global agricultural monitoring, particularly in the context of food security. He discussed how EO data monitors crop conditions, assesses agricultural productivity, and predicts food shortages. Gilliams emphasised the importance of EO in supporting decision-making processes related to food security, especially in regions prone to food insecurity due to climatic and environmental challenges. He also highlighted the work of GEOGLAM (Group on Earth Observations Global Agricultural Monitoring) in coordinating global efforts to enhance agricultural monitoring through EO, focusing on improving outcomes in developing countries, including those in Africa.

Click here to read excerpts from previous days of the AfriGEO Symposium and RCMRD International Conference 2024.

Parallel Thematic Presentations on the Final Day of the 2024 RIC and AfriGEO Symposium

The 2024 RIC and AfriGEO Symposium transitioned into parallel thematic presentations, each focusing on sectors where EO is making significant contributions.

Agriculture and Food Security

• Antoinette Wangari (ICIPE, Kenya) presented an integrated modelling approach to address Rwanda’s critical agricultural challenges. Her work focused on the combined impact of the Fall Armyworm, Striga weed, and drought—three significant threats to agricultural productivity in the region. Wangari’s approach involved using Earth Observation (EO) data to model the biotic and abiotic factors affecting crop health and yield. By integrating these models, she demonstrated how EO can provide actionable insights for farmers and policymakers, helping mitigate these challenges’ effects and improve food security in Rwanda.
• Vincent Magomere (StatsSpeak) discussed advanced methods for crop type classification and crop yield estimation, emphasising the importance of accurate and timely data in agricultural planning and decision-making. Magomere highlighted how EO data, combined with statistical analysis, can enhance the precision of crop classification and yield predictions, which are crucial for effective agricultural management. He pointed out the role of these methodologies in optimising resource allocation, improving harvest forecasts, and ensuring better food security outcomes across Africa.
• Patricia Okau explored the assessment of flood susceptibility in Uganda’s Mount Elgon region and its implications for farmland and food security. Thus, her presentation highlighted using EO data to identify areas most vulnerable to flooding and how these insights can be used to develop strategies for mitigating flood risks. In addition, Okau emphasised the impact of flooding on agricultural lands, noting that understanding flood patterns and susceptibility is vital for protecting farmlands and ensuring the resilience of food production systems in the face of changing climate conditions.
• Pamela Ochungo (Technical University of Kenya) presented using Sentinel-1 and -2 satellite data for multitemporal crop mapping in Busia County, Kenya. She focused on the challenges of conducting crop mapping in resource-limited environments, where access to high-quality data and technology is often constrained. In addition, Ochungo demonstrated how Sentinel data could effectively monitor crop growth and health over time, providing essential information for farmers and agricultural planners. Her work underscored the importance of EO in supporting agricultural practices in regions with limited resources, thereby contributing to food security and sustainable agriculture.
• Kenneth Mwangi (World Resources Institute) discussed the development and application of tools and data for crop monitoring, soil moisture analysis, and agricultural outreach. Mwangi highlighted the role of EO in providing detailed and accurate data on soil moisture levels, which is critical for understanding crop water needs and managing irrigation effectively. He also discussed how these tools could support agricultural outreach programs, helping farmers access the information they need to optimise crop production and enhance food security. Furthermore, Mwangi’s presentation emphasised the potential of EO to transform agricultural practices by providing data-driven insights that lead to better outcomes for farmers and communities.

Weather and Climate Monitoring and Adaptation

• Felix Kasiti Isundwa (University of Stirling, UK) presented on applying Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) for flood mapping, focusing on improving disaster preparedness. Isundwa explained how SAR technology, which can penetrate clouds and operate in all weather conditions, is particularly effective for real-time monitoring of floods. He highlighted the advantages of using SAR for mapping flood extents, providing crucial data for early warning systems, and aiding in the rapid deployment of disaster response efforts. Furthermore, Isundwa’s presentation emphasised the potential of SAR in enhancing the resilience of communities vulnerable to flooding by providing timely and accurate information that can inform disaster management strategies.
• Oscar Juma (Technical University of Kenya) assessed the effects of forest fires on forest cover using remote sensing technology with a case study from Aberdare Forest, Kenya. Juma’s research focused on how remote sensing tools, including satellite imagery, can be used to monitor the impact of forest fires on vegetation and ecosystem health. He demonstrated how changes in forest cover can be detected over time, allowing for assessing fire severity and the long-term effects on biodiversity. In addition, Juma discussed the implications of his findings for forest conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of remote sensing in managing and protecting forested areas from the increasing threat of wildfires.
• Ezekiel Kimondiu (Kenya Malaria Youth Corps) discussed the influence of climate change on the spread of malaria, with a particular focus on behaviour change initiatives in schools in Machakos County, Kenya. Kimondiu’s presentation addressed how shifting climate patterns, such as increased temperatures and altered rainfall, contribute to the expansion of malaria-endemic areas. Furthermore, he emphasised the need for proactive measures to combat the spread of malaria, including education and awareness programs to promote behavioural changes that can reduce the risk of infection. His work highlighted the role of schools as critical platforms for disseminating information and empowering communities to take action against malaria in the context of a changing climate.

Biodiversity and Blue Economy

• Casper Indoko (Technical University of Kenya) presented a study on assessing seasonal changes in water quality in Winam Bay, Lake Victoria, utilising Sentinel-2 satellite data. Indoko’s research focused on how variations in water quality parameters, such as turbidity and chlorophyll concentration, can be monitored over time using EO data. He emphasised the importance of understanding these seasonal changes for managing water resources and addressing environmental issues such as pollution and eutrophication in Lake Victoria. Similarly, Indoko’s work underscored the potential of Sentinel-2 data in providing critical insights for the sustainable management of one of Africa’s largest freshwater ecosystems.
• Kenneth Mubea (Digital Earth Africa) discussed the potential of Earth Observation (EO) data for effective water management across Africa, focusing on the continent’s water bodies. Mubea highlighted how EO technologies can be leveraged to monitor water availability, quality, and usage, providing essential data for decision-making in water resource management. In addition, his presentation emphasised the importance of using EO data to address challenges such as water scarcity, pollution, and the impacts of climate change on water resources. Mubea also showcased how Digital Earth Africa’s platforms empower governments, organisations, and communities to access and utilise EO data for sustainable water management practices.
• Crispus Kipkorir (GoReal Spatial Solutions) highlighted using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies to monitor the health of savanna ecosystems, with a case study focused on the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Kipkorir’s presentation demonstrated how EO data can track changes in vegetation cover, monitor wildlife habitats, and assess the impact of human activities on the savanna ecosystem. He emphasised the importance of such monitoring efforts for conservation planning and the sustainable management of the Maasai Mara, a region known for its rich biodiversity and significant ecological value.
• Akala Haron (University of Nairobi) focused on the participatory characterisation of pastoral grazing units in the rangelands of northern Kenya. Haron’s research involved working directly with local pastoral communities to map and understand the spatial dynamics of grazing patterns, water sources, and land use. His presentation highlighted how integrating local knowledge with EO data can lead to more effective management of rangelands, promoting sustainable pastoral practices and mitigating conflicts over resources. Similarly, Ndunda’s presentation showcased the use of EO technologies to monitor deforestation, track changes in forest cover, and assess the health of forest ecosystems worldwide.
• Using EO data, Peter Ndunda (World Resources Institute)discussed global forest monitoring, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable forest management. Ndunda’s presentation showcased how EO technologies are being used to monitor deforestation, track changes in forest cover, and assess the health of forest ecosystems worldwide. He highlighted the importance of these efforts in biodiversity conservation and combating climate change through sustainable forest management. Furthermore, Ndunda also demonstrated how Global Forest Watch enables governments, organisations, and communities to access real-time data on forest conditions, facilitating more informed decision-making and stronger conservation efforts.

Innovations and Data

• Kenneth Kyamanywa (Umeme Ltd) presented an in-depth analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for voltage drop analytics in Uganda’s low-voltage electricity networks. Kyamanywa’s presentation emphasised the critical role of Earth Observation (EO) data in optimising energy infrastructure. He discussed how GIS can analyze and mitigate voltage drops, common in low-voltage networks, especially in rural and underserved areas. Thus, by integrating EO data with GIS, Kyamanywa demonstrated how utility companies like Umeme Ltd can enhance the efficiency and reliability of electricity distribution, reduce technical losses, and improve service delivery to consumers. In addition, his work highlighted the potential of EO in supporting sustainable energy infrastructure development in Uganda and beyond.
• Nancy Marangu (Chemichemi Foundation, Kenya) discussed the application of micro-mapping using OpenStreetMap (OSM) to improve water accessibility in Baringo County, Kenya. Marangu’s presentation focused on how open-source data and community-driven mapping initiatives can empower local communities to address water scarcity issues. The project aimed to create a comprehensive and accurate database that informs water management strategies and policy decisions by engaging residents in mapping water sources and access points. Similarly, Marangu highlighted the importance of involving communities in data collection and mapping efforts, as this approach not only enhances data accuracy but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members. In addition, her work demonstrated how open data platforms like OSM can be powerful tools for promoting sustainable development and improving living conditions in resource-limited environments.
• Walter Mayeku (OpenStreetMap, Kenya) elaborated on the significance of open data in addressing water accessibility challenges women in rural areas face. Mayeku explored how open data platforms, such as OpenStreetMap (OSM), can leverage the mapping of water access points, track changes in water availability, and identify areas needing interventions. In addition, he emphasised the challenges women in rural communities face in accessing water, including long travel distances, safety concerns, and the burden of water collection. By using open data to highlight these issues, Mayeku advocated for data-driven solutions that can lead to more equitable and efficient water distribution. Kenmoe showcased the development and implementation of innovative data solutions designed to address specific challenges in the African context.
• Kendi Kenmoe (World Resources Institute) focused on the importance of innovation in data infrastructure, particularly in the context of Earth Observation (EO) capabilities in Africa. Kenmoe presented the various training and demonstration sessions designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of African stakeholders in effectively using EO data. Furthermore, he highlighted the need for robust data infrastructure to support the growing demand for EO applications in agriculture, disaster management, and urban planning. Kenmoe also showcased how innovative data solutions are being developed and implemented to address specific challenges in the African context. Similarly, his presentation underscored the critical role of capacity building and knowledge sharing in advancing EO technologies and ensuring they contribute to sustainable development across the continent.

Specialised Training Sessions

In addition to the thematic presentations, the final day featured specialised training sessions aimed at building capacity in EO applications:

• ESRI conducted a training session on using EO for Disaster Risk Reduction, which provided participants with the practical skills and knowledge to apply EO data in disaster management.
• Digital Earth Africa hosted a session that provided demonstrations on their platforms, focusing on online courses covering water, agriculture, land degradation, coastal erosion, and urbanisation.

Closing Remarks and Official Conference Closure for the 2024 RIC and AfriGEO Symposium

The conference concluded with final remarks from Dr Emmanuel Nkurunziza, Director General of RCMRD, who lauded the success of the AfriGEO Symposium and the RCMRD International Conference. In addition, he emphasised the importance of these events in fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the application of EO in addressing Africa’s developmental challenges. Dr Mmboneni Muofhe, Deputy Chair of the Africa Caucus from South Africa, officially closed the RIC 2024 and AfriGEO Symposium 2024, highlighting the significance of the discussions and the way forward for EO in Africa.