Missing Maps
Charting the uncharted across Africa
Many parts of the world that are most vulnerable to disaster are not properly mapped, hindering efforts to provide aid. OpenStreetMap is an organisation working to create maps for the places that need them the most.
Rupert Allan works for OpenStreetMap, an organisation that maps previously unmapped areas of the world. By creating these maps, he hopes to improve the quality of humanitarian intervention in these areas. “If there’s a massive flood or an epidemic…then agencies and charities can get into disaster situations effectively and precisely”. Workers on the ground are supported by volunteers working remotely using satellite imagery. Carly volunteers with OpenStreetMap at a centre in London. “I just trace around the corners of each building and I’ve added it to the map.” Rupert hopes that their efforts will allow them to help isolated communities across the globe. “We’re creating the first comprehensive map of the world”.
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