The SMCoSE YouthMappers Chapter, renowned as one of Tanzania’s largest mapping communities, hosted a transformative mapathon on April 14, 2024, at the esteemed Sokoine University of Agriculture. This event marked a pivotal moment of collaboration, extending invitations to other YouthMappers chapters in Morogoro, thus amplifying the inclusivity and impact of the initiative. Central to the mapathon’s objective was the concerted effort to contribute to Project #15530 within the HOT Tasking Manager, focusing on mapping cities across the Eastern and Southern Africa Region. By leveraging the power of open data, participants aimed to craft detailed base maps crucial for diverse applications, ranging from urban planning to efficient disaster response strategies.

Amidst an atmosphere described as “fantastic,” the event witnessed a remarkable accomplishment, the successful mapping of approximately 25,000 buildings. This feat not only underscores the collective dedication of the participants but also showcases the tangible outcomes of community-driven endeavors. Moreover, the mapathon served as a platform for new mappers to acquaint themselves with essential mapping tools such as ID Editors and JOSM, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to the OpenStreetMap ecosystem.

Special recognition is duly owed to the Open Mapping Hub Eastern and Southern Africa (OMHESA) for their unwavering support, notably through the prestigious Spatial People Award. This acknowledgment not only highlights the significance of collaborative partnerships but also accentuates the pivotal role of organizations in facilitating impactful mapathons and community initiatives. In essence, the event epitomized the ethos of collaboration, learning, and contribution inherent within the mapping community, further advancing the cause of open data dissemination and spatial awareness in the region.

In conclusion, the SMCoSE YouthMappers Chapter’s mapathon stands as a testament to the transformative potential of collective action in harnessing the power of mapping for societal benefit. It exemplifies how collaborative efforts can foster tangible change, driving forward the agenda of open data accessibility and spatial literacy within Tanzania and beyond. “We don’t just build maps, we build Mappers”

I recently had the privilege of attending the State of the Map Africa 2023 conference in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The event, focused on “Open Mapping as a Support Tool for Local Development in Africa,” provided a platform for diverse perspectives and insightful discussions over three engaging days. Representing YouthMappers from Tanzania and GeoTE-Tanzania, I actively participated in various sessions, sharing experiences and insights on harnessing open mapping for community betterment.

Mapping Trees for Climate Change Resilience. In my first session, I delved into the critical role of open mapping tools like OpenDataKit in mapping trees for climate change resilience. The discussion highlighted practical approaches to leverage these tools, emphasizing the importance of mapping initiatives in building climate-resilient communities. The power of collaborative mapping became evident as we explored strategies to enhance environmental sustainability through open mapping.

Gender Inclusion in OSM Africa. The second session focused on gender inclusion within the OpenStreetMap (OSM) community in Africa. In a lively panel discussion, we explored avenues to improve gender representation and participation. It was inspiring to share ideas with fellow panelists and conference participants, brainstorming on practical steps to foster a more inclusive OSM environment for everyone.

Building Sustainable Open Mapping Communities Across Africa. The final panel discussion, led by Mr. Innocent Maholi from OpenMap Development Tanzania, delved into the theme of building sustainable open mapping communities across Africa. Joined by panelists Ezekiel Kiariro, Nathalie Sidibe, and Severin Menard, we exchanged insights on strategies to create enduring mapping communities. Our discourse covered topics ranging from community engagement to resource mobilization, leaving us with a roadmap for nurturing vibrant and sustainable mapping ecosystems.

Beyond Sessions: Connecting with YouthMappers. Beyond the formal sessions, the conference provided a unique opportunity to connect with fellow YouthMappers from different countries. We shared success stories, learned from each other’s experiences, and forged connections that extend beyond the conference walls. These interactions underscored the strength of a united mapping community and the potential for positive change through collaborative efforts.

Acknowledgments. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organizers of the State of the Map Africa 2023, the supporters, donors, and all the participants who contributed to the success of the conference whether in person or virtually. Your collective support and active engagement made this conference a vibrant hub of knowledge sharing and collaboration. As I reflect on the valuable insights gained and connections made, I am inspired to continue contributing to the open mapping movement. State of the Map Africa 2023 was not just a conference; it was a catalyst for positive change, empowering us to use open mapping as a catalyst for local development in Africa. I look forward to carrying these experiences forward and collaborating with the global mapping community to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and impactful future.

Embark on a journey through the vibrant happenings of GIS Day Tanzania 2023, where innovation, collaboration, and shared knowledge took centre stage. Hosted at the esteemed COSTECH in Dar es Salaam, these two days unfolded into a remarkable saga, epitomizing the spirit of ‘GIS for Sustainable Development.’ Dynamic Panel Sessions: The event commenced with dynamic panel sessions, offering a profound exploration into the world of GIS. Expert voices resonated, providing invaluable insights that ranged from industry trends to ground breaking innovations. The collective knowledge shared during these sessions laid the foundation for a rich and enlightening experience. Collaborative Mapathon Extravaganza: A highlight of the event was the collaborative mapathon orchestrated by all YouthMappers chapters in Dar es Salaam. Together, they passionately contributed to the Crop Identification projects #1546 and #1547 on teachOSM. The collective effort showcased the power of collaboration in leveraging GIS for impactful projects. Interactive Booths: The venue buzzed with activity as diverse organizations set up interactive booths. At the GeoTE Tanzania booth, ideas and techniques used in implementing various GIS projects were shared. A hub of knowledge exchange, attendees delved into the intricacies of GIS implementation. Meanwhile, YouthMappers had their own booth, proudly showcasing the projects they’ve undertaken in Tanzania with various stakeholders. Productive Insights at GeoTE Tanzania Booth. GeoTE Tanzania took the opportunity to host its booth, becoming a focal point for insightful discussions. Ideas and techniques employed in the implementation of diverse projects, all fuelled by GIS knowledge, were exchanged. The booth emerged as a dynamic space, fostering connections and igniting enthusiasm for GIS endeavours. YouthMappers’ Showcase. The YouthMappers booth was a testament to the impactful projects undertaken by the youth community in Tanzania. Showcasing collaborations with various stakeholders, their projects stood as shining examples of how GIS can be a catalyst for positive change. In retrospect, these two days were nothing short of extraordinary. From expert panel sessions and a collaborative mapathon to interactive booths by organizations like GeoTE Tanzania and YouthMappers, GIS Day Tanzania 2023 was a melting pot of ideas, techniques, and collaborative brilliance. The event not only celebrated GIS but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations, projects, and innovations in the geospatial realm. As we bid farewell to these productive and insightful days, the echoes of shared knowledge and collaborative spirit linger. GIS Day Tanzania 2023 was not just an event; it was a catalyst for future endeavours, where the dynamic fusion of GIS and sustainable development became the driving force towards a brighter, interconnected future. Stay tuned for more updates on the transformative journey of GIS, where each insight becomes a stepping stone towards a more sustainable and connected world.