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.