2016 ICT4D Conference

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) represent an important tool to building local capacities to improve the environment by integrating technology, based on the analysis of information and spatial processes. It involves diverse actors, including communities, institutions, local and national governments, in the land development process.

To contribute to local development, CRS with the support of the Global Water Initiative, a partnership funded by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, developed the A-MANO methodology which is a combination of mapping and community development tools that empower local people to analyze their environment, monitor change over time, propose solutions, and plan for a better future. Using satellite imagery to allow local stakeholders and development practitioners to utilize the map as a medium for information-exchange and help communities to see their conditions within a larger context and understand better their reality to promote their own development.

In a national context, with support of Purdue University, CRS is working together with Central American governments to develop a Digital Soil Map based on a GIS model for predicting and mapping soil functional classes through the use of the property values of soil samples obtained in the field to produce continuous maps properties, to improved agricultural production systems.

Our experience with GIS use has shown us that ICT is very useful in helping decision makers achieve the SDGs in their territories.