STATE OF THE MAP 2024- A Transformative Experience in Nairobi

Posted by Katongole Umar on 13 September 2024 in English.

Alt text This year, I had the incredible privilege of attending the State of the Map 2024 conference, hosted in Nairobi, Kenya. Over the course of three unforgettable days, I participated in insightful opening talks, lightning sessions, and deep discussions on critical mapping issues, all while meeting and learning from experts from across the globe. Nairobi proved to be a truly resourceful city for this conference. A country with diverse geography, Kenya is home to national parks, game reserves, and an airport conveniently located within the city, making it a unique blend of urban life and nature. The infrastructure was excellent, and it provided a comfortable environment for participants to learn, connect, and exchange ideas. The team behind the conference’s organization deserves a huge thank you for ensuring everything went smoothly. Their efforts made this an enriching experience for all.

One of the most exciting aspects of the conference was seeing how mapping is evolving on a global scale. The connections I made during the event were invaluable, both personally and professionally. Peers from different organizations shared their experiences, insights, and visions for the future of mapping, and it was clear to me that these connections are not fleeting—they are strong bonds that will continue to grow as we move forward together in this fast-changing world of technology. We are at a pivotal moment in time, where machine learning and artificial intelligence are no longer just theoretical concepts, but practical tools revolutionizing the mapping landscape. This conference highlighted the importance of technology in shaping the future of mapping, and as a passionate member of the mapping community, I am thrilled to be part of this transformation. The integration of machine learning into mapping platforms, for example, is streamlining tasks, improving accuracy, and opening doors to new possibilities. The skills I acquired here are going to be vital in leading the Geo Youth Mappers cabinet at Makerere University, as we push forward to share knowledge, empower others, and contribute to global mapping efforts. Using Knowledge to Build Nations I am excited to apply everything I’ve learned from State of the Map 2024 to help build my nation. We, as mappers, hold a unique responsibility—we don’t just build maps, we build mappers. By equipping others with the knowledge and tools to contribute to open mapping projects, we empower our communities, improve decision-making, and support sustainable development. The knowledge gained at this conference will be used resourcefully. Whether through contributing to humanitarian efforts with OpenStreetMap or implementing GeoTools to solve local challenges, I am eager to see how we can continue building maps that shape our world. Alt text As I reflect on this experience, I realize that mapping is not just a skillset—it’s a lifestyle. Being a mapper means being constantly curious, engaged, and motivated to learn and adapt as technology evolves. Mapping is a powerful tool that allows us to see the world in a new light, from improving urban planning and infrastructure to helping communities respond to crises. I will always be a mapper because I believe in the power of maps to transform societies, connect people, and drive progress.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this journey possible: The Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) OpenStreetMap The Open Mapping Hubs Prof. Anthony Gidudu Your guidance and vision have made this experience transformative. I am ready to take this knowledge, share it with my community, and continue contributing to the global mapping effort. In conclusion, the future of mapping is bright, and I am proud to be part of a global community that is driving this change. With the knowledge and connections from State of the Map 2024, we are well-equipped to continue building a better world through maps. Peace and happy mapping!