By:
Robert Kwaku Annor
Sierra
Leone has launched a new initiative to develop a high-resolution national base
map aimed at strengthening land administration, urban planning and
infrastructure development through improved geospatial data.
The
project is being implemented by the Directorate of Science, Technology and
Innovation (DSTI) in partnership with the Ministry of Lands, Housing and
Country Planning, with technical support from the Japan International
Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Aero Toyota Japan.
The
initiative will begin with a pilot phase in the Western Area Urban District
before being expanded to support broader national mapping efforts.
According
to the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation, the
high-resolution base map will provide accurate and reliable geospatial
information to improve decision-making across multiple sectors.
The
mapping project is expected to enhance land management by providing precise
spatial data that supports land administration and planning processes.
It
will also strengthen disaster preparedness and emergency response by enabling
authorities to better assess risks, coordinate interventions and manage
resources during natural and human-induced emergencies.
In
addition, the geospatial data will support urban planning by providing planners
and policymakers with updated information for sustainable city development,
transportation planning and infrastructure expansion.
Officials
said the project represents an important step in modernizing Sierra Leone's
national geospatial infrastructure and improving the availability of digital
mapping resources for government institutions.
