UN Geospatial Information Management for Africa to Convene in Addis Ababa

ADDIS ABABA: The United Nations Global Geospatial Information Management for Africa (UN-GGIM: Africa) is set to hold its tenth session from October 28 to November 1, 2024, in Addis Ababa, coinciding with key statistical and disaster-related forums. This gathering aims to enhance regional cooperation and the utilization of geospatial data to address developmental challenges across the continent.According to Ethiopian News Agency, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) announced that the event will align with the ninth session of the Statistical Commission for Africa and the fourth Expert Forum for Producers and Users of Disaster-related Statistics. UN-GGIM: Africa has been instrumental in advancing geospatial development in Africa, contributing to global efforts in geospatial information management. The Regional Committee has made strides in promoting the continent's use of geospatial information for national planning and decision-making.The session aims to empower African nations with dat a-driven strategies, focusing on the theme "Harnessing Geospatial Intelligence for a Disaster-Resilient Africa." This theme underscores the importance of geospatial data in addressing challenges such as climate change, urbanization, disaster risk, and public health. The event will bring together experts and stakeholders from Africa and beyond to explore geospatial information's role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Aligned with the Secretary-General's Data Strategy for "Action by Everyone, Everywhere," the session will concentrate on data flows at national and continental levels to meet SDG needs. Attendees, including government officials, private sector leaders, and academia, will have opportunities to network and forge partnerships to advance Africa's geospatial agenda.The concurrent events will encourage dialogue and knowledge exchange among professionals in geospatial information, statistics, and disaster risk management, fostering synergies and a shared vision for managing develo pment data. The session is expected to conclude with outcomes that will shape future policies and collaborative efforts, furthering sustainable development across Africa, as indicated in the press release.