Open Data Celebration: Empowering Communities Through Open Data and Shoreline Mapping

The views and content expressed in this blog are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the positions or policies of any organization. YouthMappers is a voluntary network, and all participation in its activities is independent and self-directed. Any projects, data, or findings referenced here are the result of voluntary contributions from YouthMappers members. 

On the 6th of March, UCC YouthMappers embarked on an exciting field mapping exercise at Dutch Komenda as part of our open data initiatives. The early morning atmosphere was calm, and the team was filled with enthusiasm, eager to contribute to community empowerment and resilience through the power of open data.

At exactly 10 AM, we set off from campus, energized and ready for the day ahead. For some of us, this was our first time visiting Dutch Komenda, a community in the Komenda Edina Eguafo Abirem District. The journey itself was an adventure, and along the way, we couldn't help but relate the geographical features we observed to our field of study. To keep our energy levels high, breakfast was served en route, knowing we had a long and eventful day ahead.

Upon arrival at Dutch Komenda around 11 AM, we received a warm welcome from the community leaders. Dr. Julia, our patron, led the introductions, explaining who we were and the purpose of our visit. Thanks to prior community entry efforts, we were received with open arms.

She emphasized that the success of our project depended on the active participation of the community and outlined our objectives.

We divided ourselves into five groups, each with a specific focus:

1. Participatory Mapping on Coastal Flooding – Three groups worked with selected community members to map coastal flooding issues, including magnitude, frequency, spatial extent, and domino effects.

2. Mapping Critical Infrastructure – Another group used open data technology (SWMaps) to document essential services and infrastructure in the community.

3. Shoreline Delineation and Mapping – Using SWMaps, satellite images, and historical shoreline data, the last group analyzed coastal erosion patterns at Dutch Komenda.

   
   

In a show of generosity, the community leaders assigned dedicated members to each group to assist in data collection. They even provided hand sanitizers to ensure we maintained hygiene while working. With gratitude for their hospitality, we dived into the day’s activities.

For hours, we engaged in rigorous data collection, surveying shorelines, identifying critical infrastructure, and mapping flood-prone areas. The community members were incredibly cooperative, offering valuable insights and guidance. It was an enriching experience, as we got to apply our classroom knowledge to real-life scenarios.

However, the scorching sun was relentless, making the work more exhausting. But despite the heat, our determination never wavered. We pressed on, driven by our commitment to promoting open data and achieving our research goals.

By 2 PM, our objectives had largely been accomplished. We took a moment to reflect on our work, shared snacks to replenish our energy, and celebrated our progress. Before leaving, we gathered at the beachside with the community members for a small social gathering. We took group photos, symbolizing the bond we had formed and our commitment to their community.

With hearts full of gratitude, we thanked them for their support and assured them that we would keep in touch regarding the project’s progress. By 5 PM, we bid them farewell and made our way back to campus, arriving safely around 6 PM. As we reflected on the day’s experiences, we couldn’t help but thank the good Lord for a successful and impactful field exercise.

This fieldwork was more than just a project; it was a learning experience, an opportunity to engage with the community, and a step toward using geospatial technology for meaningful change.

About the Author

Martin Paku is a Geography and Regional Planning student at the University of Cape Coast, specializing in Geospatial Sciences and environmental issues. As the Training Officer for his university's YouthMappers chapter, he is dedicated to equipping students with hands-on GIS and mapping skills through structured training programs. His research interests span land use land cover change, flood risk assessment, and spatial analysis in coastal communities, where he explores innovative geospatial techniques to address pressing environmental challenges. Passionate about bridging the gap between academia and real-world applications, Martin actively engages in collaborative projects that leverage GIS for sustainable development and disaster resilience.

Photos by UCCYouthMappers Media Team