Introduction
In collaboration with GeoTE Tanzania, YouthMappers at Sokoine University of Agriculture had the opportunity to acquire new skills and knowledge while sharing invaluable experiences in geographical information systems (GIS). GeoTE, a non-governmental organization, leverages geospatial technology to address sustainable development goals. This recent training marked the second cohort hosted at Sokoine University of Agriculture, designed to impart knowledge on applying GIS in diverse fields such as civil engineering, tourism, water and sanitation, and transportation.
A total of 60 students participated in the program, which ran from 6th March to 5th April 2024. In addition to field training, GeoTE offers GIS short courses, mapathons, and mentorship programs. This year, we were honored to have Mr. Erick Tamba Mnyali, YouthMappers Regional Ambassador, and Mr. Ezekiel Edgar Kiariro, GIS and Open Mapping Manager at GeoTE Tanzania, as our facilitators.
Field Practical Training - Week 1
During the first week of our field practical training, we were introduced to the fundamentals of GIS, including its components, various types of spatial and non-spatial data, and data sources specific to Tanzania. We also became familiar with QGIS, a widely used software in GIS applications. Beyond the basics, we explored georeferencing techniques in QGIS, gained an understanding of global coordinate reference systems, and acquired skills in projecting georeferenced images.
Additionally, we engaged in practical fieldwork, collecting vector data using GPS-enabled mobile phones. This data was then transferred to QGIS, where we applied data styling and classification techniques. A key highlight of the week was creating our first map—a truly rewarding experience. To reinforce our learning, we participated in daily Kahoot games, with a "Star of the Week" accolade awarded at the end. I was honored to receive this recognition for the first week.
This week also featured a visit from Mr. Gideon Swai, Director of GeoTE, who provided valuable insights into GIS and its diverse applications. He also shared perspectives on the employment landscape for GIS professionals, both in Tanzania and globally.
International Women’s Day 2024
On March 8th, we celebrated International Women’s Day, honoring the significant contributions of women to society. In partnership with GeoTE, we participated in activities designed to empower women with skills essential for driving societal transformation.
Field Practical Training - Week 2
This week introduced us to YouthMappers, a global consortium with numerous chapters in universities around the world. Our university chapter, SMCoSE YouthMappers, proudly embraces the motto, "WE DON’T JUST BUILD MAPS. WE BUILD MAPPERS." Coordinators provided an overview of the mission, vision, and opportunities offered by YouthMappers, including leadership fellowships and the YouthMappers Academy. Through the academy, we explored Open Mapping, created our OSM accounts, and contributed to mapping projects using the TeachOSM Tasking Manager.
We also participated in an online meeting with Mr. Walter from OSM Kenya, who shared valuable insights into the dynamics of the open mapping community and highlighted its significance in environmental studies.
In addition, we engaged in a mapathon, where we collectively mapped over 17,000 buildings for designated projects. Later in the week, we learned about Mapillary, an amazing application where we can capture raster data. Using Mapillary, we documented various areas on our campus and successfully uploaded them to the platform.
Field Practical Training - Week 3
This week, we delved deeper into GIS applications, focusing on geoprocessing tools and interpolation techniques. These activities significantly enriched our understanding of GIS. We started a beautiful week by learning about spatial queries, which are based on location, and attribute queries, which are based on specific attributes. We also explored creating points using latitude and longitude values, along with buffering techniques, including their functionality and practical applications.
More exciting, we advanced by performing data analysis in QGIS using geoprocessing tools such as clip, convex hull, and difference. Additionally, we used geometry tools, including centroids, density by count, and collecting geometries, as well as other analysis tools.
A highlight of the week was learning how to convert contour line data into 3D raster data to create Digital Elevation Models (DEMs). We also performed interpolation, applying IDW (Inverse Distance Weighting) for continuous data like rainfall and TIN (Triangulated Irregular Network) interpolation for discrete data such as elevation.
Field Practical Training - Week 4
This week was truly inspiring as we learned from our drone pilot, Ms. Janeth Mwakisole, who shared insights into the history of drones (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles). She explained how drones, which do not require a physical pilot to operate, can be efficiently utilized for various development purposes. She also highlighted the advantages of drones over satellites, emphasizing their superior temporal range and high resolution. However, she noted that drones cannot be used everywhere due to privacy and security restrictions.
Ms. Mwakisole also provided a detailed overview of drone components, including motors, propellers, autopilots, and remote controllers. She elaborated on the different types of drones, such as single-rotor, multi-rotor, fixed-wing, hybrid, small, and micro drones. Additionally, she discussed the diverse applications of drones, including disaster response, urban planning, environmental monitoring, climate change tracking, and aerial photography.
Not only did we gain knowledge about drones, but we also learned about remote sensing, which involves the use of electromagnetic radiation. This radiation can behave both as a wave, with electric and magnetic fields, and as a particle, characterized by wavelength and frequency.
We delved deeper into the components of remote sensing and examined atmospheric interactions with electromagnetic radiation, including scattering, diffusion, and transmission. Additionally, we explored surface interactions, such as absorption and reflection. We also learned about the various platforms used in remote sensing, including drones, aircraft, cameras, and satellites.
Ms. Janeth Mwakisole is an inspiration to female YouthMappers, and we were honored to have her lead us during this remote sensing-focused week.
Monitoring Afforestation Event
Our collaboration with My Birthday Tree Organization, Apopo Organization, and Afya Bora provided us with practical knowledge on conducting site surveys and monitoring tree-planting initiatives. We actively participated in afforestation campaigns, planting trees and mapping their locations using mobile applications.
One of the key concepts introduced was syntropic agroforestry, which involves planting crops alongside trees to provide mutual benefits such as nutrients, shade, and soil fertility. This campaign aligns with efforts to combat climate change. To implement the objectives of the campaign, we visited a site area located at Magadu, Morogoro.
Project managers, Mr. Aaron and Mr. Christopher, guided us on executing syntropic agroforestry techniques and explained their importance. We also learned about various tree species, including acacia, bamboo, and mkongo. The experience culminated in a tree planting and mapping session, during which we successfully planted over 1,200 trees.
Field Practical Training - Week 5
The final week of training focused on advanced GIS applications, including the use of raster calculators and spatial indices such as the NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), the Normalized Difference Built-Up Index, and the Normalized Difference Water Index. We also developed skills in writing project proposals, which we presented as part of the week's activities.
Farewell Party
The Field Practical Training program concluded with a farewell party, where we expressed our gratitude to the coordinators and celebrated our collective achievements. As part of the event, the coordinators shared speeches reflecting on the program and outlining expectations moving forward. Erick Tamba Mnyali said, "Continuously learn and apply your knowledge and skills in practice, and by doing so, you will achieve significant milestones in pursuit of your career objectives."
Conclusion
The five-week program was an incredible experience, providing us with a wealth of invaluable knowledge and practical skills. I extend my sincere gratitude to our coordinators and the GeoTE team for facilitating this enriching experience. We appreciate your efforts, sacrifices, and time, which ensured we not only gained new knowledge and skills but also learned how to apply them in real-life scenarios to address societal challenges.
Find more about the program here.
About the Author
Juliana Benard Mugina
A second year students at Sokoine University of Agriculture, diving deep into the world of Environmental Sciences and Management. As a proud member of SMCOSE YouthMappers, I'm passionate about using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to tackle environmental issues. My dream is to become a skilled GIS analyst, shaping a greener, more sustainable future.
Connect with the author on Instagram.