Esri Conference: Experts call for stronger data partnerships to drive development in West Africa

Geospatial experts and industry leaders gathered at the Esri User Conference West Africa 2026 in Accra to advocate for stronger collaboration and responsible data sharing in West Africa. Dr. Diane Dumashie, President of the International Federation of Surveyors, emphasized that geospatial information was vital to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. She urged professionals to analyze data to assist decision-makers in understanding issues and taking appropriate actions.

Vincent Komla Hotor, Director of Subsurface at the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), highlighted how GIS was aiding the company in making informed decisions regarding petroleum exploration, infrastructure planning, safety, and environmental management. He stressed that spatial analysis was crucial in determining the most suitable route for pipelines, considering factors such as seabed conditions, environmental sensitivity, existing infrastructure, construction requirements, and cost.

MTN Ghana's Senior Manager for Customer Insight and Analytics, Amerley Ampofo, discussed the expanding role of GIS in the company's business and national development strategies. She explained that GIS had evolved from a specialized tool for mapping to a strategic resource supporting various departments, including marketing, sales, customer experience, and service centre placement.

Ampofo stressed the importance of combining diverse datasets to address challenges faced by West African cities, such as flooding and traffic congestion.