Empower Your Community for Impact: A UniqueMappers Nigeria Example

By

Dr. Victor N. Sunday, Amankwe Kingsely, and Esther Ejikeomeuwa

Unique Mappers Nigeria

Geography and Environmental Management,

University of Port Harcourt

 Outline/TOC

1. About Unique Mappers
2. Our 7 Years Impact as the Local Community of Citizen Science in Nigeria
3. Our Partnership with SciStarter USA for Citizen Science
4. Impact with April 2024 Global Citizen Science
5. Our Campaign – OneMillionActsofScience – Video #OneMillionActsofScience @UniqueMappers April 2024 Global Citizen Science Month
6. Our Volunteer Mobilisation
7. Our Project Focus

• Map Nigeria Mapathon for Umuahia
• #OneMillionActsofScience Social Media Post
• Citizen Science Foundation Course
• Mosquito Habitat Mapping
• Land Cover Mapping

8. Our Project Results/Stats – April 2024

• Map Nigeria Mapathon for Umuahia Stats – April Ending
• Mosquito and Land Cover Mapping Stats

9. Our Approach
10. Call for Mosquito Habitat Mapping Sustainability and Stakeholders Support in Nigeria
11. Call for State of the Map Nigeria 2024
12. Conclusion

 1.0.  About Unique Mappers

Unique Mappers Network (UMT) is a dynamic and innovative community dedicated to humanitarian response and community development through geospatial data and citizen science. Founded in 2017, UMT has grown significantly, providing open and accessible map data for disaster response, emergency crises, research, and economic development. Our mission aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), leveraging open-source technology and community engagement. We operate across Nigeria with emerging state chapters and response teams in higher institutions, conducting activities such as OpenStreetMap mapping, mobile data collection, fly lab/community mapping, participatory citizen science, and youth empowerment (Uniquemappers, 2022).

UMT collaborates with various international organizations, including SciStarter USA and Youth Mappers USA, to promote citizen science and open mapping initiatives. Key projects include Map Nigeria Mapathon, mosquito habitat mapping, land cover mapping, and other citizen science activities. Through these initiatives, we have successfully mobilized over 1,000 volunteers, contributing to thousands of new data points on OpenStreetMap, supporting urban planning, disaster response, and sustainable development. Our decentralized structure empowers volunteers at all levels, led by a National Coordinator and supported by Volunteer Team Leads (VTLs) and specific working groups.

Despite challenges such as resource constraints and maintaining long-term engagement, UMT continues to grow its network and impact through strategic partnerships and innovative approaches. Our commitment to open data, citizen science, and sustainable development drives our efforts to empower communities and contribute to global humanitarian mapping. By embracing new technologies and strengthening collaborations, UMT aims to make significant contributions to the field of geospatial science and the broader community, advocating for policies that support open data and sustainable development.

2.0. Our 7 Years Impact as the Local Community of Citizen Science in Nigeria

Over the past seven years, Unique Mappers Network (UMT) has made significant strides in fostering citizen science and open mapping initiatives across Nigeria. As a grassroots organization, we have focused on building local capacity and engaging communities in geospatial data collection and analysis. Our efforts have resulted in substantial contributions to OpenStreetMap, enhancing the availability of critical geospatial data for disaster response, urban planning, and sustainable development.

UMT has successfully mobilized thousands of volunteers, conducting numerous mapping and citizen science projects that address various local and national challenges. Through our initiatives, we have trained and empowered youth, women, and marginalized groups, providing them with the skills and tools needed to participate in open-source geospatial activities. Our projects have covered diverse areas, including mosquito habitat mapping for malaria prevention, land cover mapping for environmental conservation, and participatory mapping for community development.

Our impact extends beyond data collection, as we have also fostered a vibrant community of citizen scientists and mappers who are passionate about contributing to societal well-being. By collaborating with international organizations such as SciStarter USA, we have positioned Nigeria as a leading example of grassroots citizen science and open mapping. Our work has been instrumental in raising awareness about the importance of geospatial data and citizen science in addressing local and global challenges, ultimately contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

3.0.  Our Partnership with SciStarter USA for Citizen Science

Unique Mappers Network (UMT) has established a fruitful partnership with SciStarter USA, a leading platform that connects citizen scientists with projects across various scientific disciplines. This collaboration has significantly amplified our capacity to engage communities in meaningful citizen science activities. By leveraging SciStarter’s resources and network, we have been able to introduce a variety of citizen science projects to our volunteers, including environmental monitoring, public health initiatives, and biodiversity studies.

Through this partnership, UMT has facilitated numerous training sessions and workshops to equip our volunteers with the necessary skills for data collection and analysis. We have also organized joint events during global citizen science initiatives, such as the annual Global Citizen Science Month. These events have seen active participation from our volunteers, who have contributed valuable data to global databases and enhanced their understanding of scientific research methodologies. The synergy between UMT and SciStarter has been pivotal in promoting the importance of citizen science and open data in Nigeria.

Our collaboration with SciStarter has also enabled us to develop localized citizen science projects that address specific community needs. These projects include mosquito habitat mapping for malaria prevention and land cover mapping for environmental conservation. By integrating SciStarter’s project management tools and resources, we have improved the quality and impact of our citizen science initiatives. This partnership exemplifies the power of international collaboration in advancing scientific literacy and community engagement in Nigeria.

4.0. Impact with April 2024 Global Citizen Science

During the April 2024 Global Citizen Science Month, Unique Mappers Network (UMT) Nigeria significantly contributed to global scientific endeavors through various impactful projects and activities. This month-long celebration of citizen science saw UMT engaging volunteers in numerous scientific data collection and analysis tasks, furthering our mission to promote community involvement in scientific research.

Our participation included hosting several events and workshops to introduce and train volunteers on the Globe Observer app, which is used for environmental monitoring. Keynote speakers provided detailed guidance on the registration process, photo uploads, and data submission, ensuring that our volunteers were well-prepared to contribute effectively. The introduction to the Globe Observer app was a crucial step in empowering our volunteers to participate in global citizen science projects.

One of the highlights of our participation was the 10-day challenge sprint, where 10 teams led by volunteer team leads (VTLs) worked on various citizen science projects. These teams, comprising over 120 volunteers, engaged in activities such as mosquito habitat mapping, land cover mapping, and general data collection. Physical centers were established in key locations, including the American Corner at the University of Port Harcourt, to facilitate hands-on training and collaboration. This intensive effort not only contributed valuable data but also fostered a sense of community and shared purpose among the volunteers.

UMT’s active involvement in the Global Citizen Science Month underscored our commitment to leveraging citizen science for local and global impact. By mobilizing volunteers, providing essential training, and participating in coordinated data collection efforts, we demonstrated the power of community-driven scientific research. This initiative not only enhanced our volunteers’ skills and knowledge but also contributed to global scientific databases, supporting a wide range of environmental and public health initiatives.

5.0. Our Campaign – OneMillionActsofScience – Video #OneMillionActsofScience @UniqueMappers April 2024 Global Citizen Science Month

In April 2024, Unique Mappers Nigeria actively participated in the OneMillionActsofScience campaign, a global initiative aimed at mobilizing one million acts of scientific engagement. Our involvement in this campaign was multifaceted and impactful. Through captivating social media posts, insightful educational sessions, and hands-on mapping projects, we effectively raised awareness and engaged our community in scientific endeavors. Despite the conclusion of April, our contributions during the campaign continue to resonate, and we remain committed to furthering our efforts in global citizen science initiatives. Stay tuned for updates on our future initiatives and opportunities to join us in making a meaningful impact. #OneMillionActsofScience #UniqueMappers #GlobalCitizenScience

6.0. Our Volunteer Mobilisation

Unique Mappers Nigeria (UMT) has implemented a robust volunteer mobilization strategy to effectively engage and manage volunteers across various projects. This strategy includes:

• Formation of 10 teams, each led by a dedicated Volunteer Team Lead (VTL). These teams are coordinated by the UMT Citizen Science Working Group, ensuring efficient communication and collaboration.
• Engagement of over 120 volunteers through WhatsApp groups and direct communication channels. This extensive network of volunteers allows UMT to leverage diverse skills and expertise for its projects.
• Establishment of two physical centers to serve as hubs for volunteer activities. Additionally, UMT has successfully involved an undergraduate class of 57 students, further expanding its reach and impact.
• Focus on key projects such as the Map Nigeria Mapathon for Umuahia, social media campaigns, Citizen Science Foundation courses, and mosquito habitat and land cover mapping. These projects not only contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge but also empower volunteers to actively participate in community development initiatives.

Through its volunteer mobilization efforts, UMT has created a dynamic and inclusive environment for individuals to contribute meaningfully to scientific research and community development. This approach not only enhances the impact of UMT’s projects but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride among its volunteers.

7.0. Our Project Focus

Unique Mappers Nigeria (UMT) has dedicated its efforts to several impactful projects, each aimed at addressing specific challenges and contributing to scientific research and community development. Our project focus includes:

• Map Nigeria Mapathon for Umuahia:This initiative involves engaging volunteers in mapping the Umuahia region of Nigeria. Through collaborative efforts, volunteers contribute to the creation of detailed maps that serve various purposes, including urban planning, disaster preparedness, and infrastructure development.
• #OneMillionActsofScience Social Media Post:UMT actively participates in social media campaigns to raise awareness and encourage participation in scientific activities. By leveraging platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, we amplify our message and reach a wider audience, inspiring individuals to join the global movement of citizen science.
• Citizen Science Foundation Course:UMT offers educational courses on the principles and practices of citizen science. These courses provide volunteers with essential knowledge and skills to effectively participate in scientific research projects, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to environmental monitoring, biodiversity conservation, and public health initiatives.
• Mosquito Habitat Mapping: Combatting malaria requires comprehensive data on mosquito habitats. Through mosquito habitat mapping projects, UMT collects valuable data to identify high-risk areas for malaria transmission, inform targeted interventions, and support efforts to eliminate this deadly disease.
• Land Cover Mapping: Documenting changes in land cover is essential for understanding environmental dynamics and monitoring ecosystem health. UMT conducts land cover mapping projects to capture spatial information on land use and land cover changes, providing valuable insights for sustainable land management and conservation efforts.

By focusing on these projects, UMT demonstrates its commitment to leveraging the power of citizen science and geospatial technologies for positive social impact and sustainable development. Through collaborative efforts and innovative approaches, we strive to address pressing challenges facing our communities and contribute to a brighter, more resilient future.

 8.0. Our Project Results/Stats – April 2024

The outcomes and statistics from our projects in April 2024 reflect the collective efforts and contributions of our dedicated volunteers:

• Map Nigeria Mapathon for Umuahia Stats – April Ending: The concluding statistics of the Map Nigeria Mapathon for Umuahia highlight the significant progress achieved by our volunteers in mapping the Umuahia region. These detailed statistics provide insights into the number of buildings, roads, and other features mapped, showcasing the tangible impact of our mapping endeavors on local communities and disaster response efforts.
• Mosquito and Land Cover Mapping Stats:Our mosquito habitat mapping and land cover mapping projects generated valuable data on the prevalence of mosquito habitats and land cover changes in targeted areas. These statistics offer valuable insights into environmental dynamics, disease transmission patterns, and ecosystem health, laying the groundwork for evidence-based decision-making and interventions to address malaria and environmental challenges.

By quantifying our achievements and documenting project outcomes through comprehensive statistics, we aim to demonstrate the effectiveness and relevance of our initiatives in addressing pressing societal and environmental issues. These project results serve as a testament to the commitment and dedication of our volunteers and underscore the transformative potential of citizen science and community-driven approaches in advancing sustainable development goals and improving quality of life.For further information on the specific statistics and findings of these projects, please contact the authors.

 9.0. Our Approach

Unique Mappers Nigeria (UMT) employs a strategic approach to volunteer engagement and project implementation, ensuring effectiveness, efficiency, and meaningful impact. Our approach encompasses the following key elements:

• l Annual Participation in April Global Citizen Science: UMT actively participates in the April Global Citizen Science Month, mobilizing new volunteers each year to contribute to scientific research and community-driven initiatives. This annual event serves as a catalyst for raising awareness, expanding our network, and fostering collaboration on a global scale.
• Motivating and Engaging Volunteers:We prioritize motivating and engaging volunteers by ensuring they understand the significance of their contributions and how they directly contribute to scientific advancements and community development. By highlighting the relevance of their work, we inspire passion and commitment among volunteers, driving sustained engagement and participation.
• Leadership Roles:UMT provides opportunities for volunteers to take on leadership roles within projects and initiatives. By empowering volunteers to lead teams, coordinate activities, and make decisions, we cultivate leadership skills, foster a sense of ownership, and encourage active participation in project management and execution.
• Support with Internet Data:Recognizing the financial constraints faced by volunteers, particularly regarding internet access, UMT provides support through data subscriptions. By covering the cost of internet data, we remove barriers to participation, ensuring that volunteers can contribute effectively to projects without facing undue financial burden.
• Rewarding Volunteers:UMT values the contributions of volunteers and acknowledges their efforts through various incentives, including stipends and certificates. Volunteer performance is assessed based on key performance indicators (KPIs), and rewards are provided to recognize and incentivize exemplary contributions, fostering a culture of appreciation and recognition within the community.
• Visibility of Impact:We emphasize the importance of showcasing the tangible impact of volunteer efforts and the scientific data they contribute. By highlighting project outcomes, demonstrating the real-world applications of collected data, and sharing success stories, we ensure that volunteers understand the significance of their contributions and feel proud of their involvement.
• Beyond Fun and Task: UMT encourages volunteers to look beyond the immediate tasks and consider the broader implications and applications of their projects. By emphasizing the long-term goals and societal benefits of their work, we inspire volunteers to think critically, creatively, and strategically, fostering a deeper understanding of the purpose and potential of citizen science initiatives.

Through this comprehensive approach, UMT maximizes the effectiveness and impact of volunteer engagement, empowering individuals to make meaningful contributions to scientific research, community development, and global sustainability efforts.

10.0. Call for Mosquito Habitat Mapping Sustainability and Stakeholders Support in Nigeria

The mosquito habitat mapping project spearheaded by NASA Earth Science, through the globe observer application, serves as a vital initiative aimed at providing critical geospatial open data to combat malaria prevalence in Nigeria. By documenting and analyzing mosquito habitats, we contribute to the overarching goal of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG-3) – Good Health and Well-being. However, to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of this project, we call upon stakeholders at various levels to lend their support and commitment.

Stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), healthcare institutions, research institutions, and community leaders, play a crucial role in sustaining and scaling up our mosquito habitat mapping efforts. By providing financial resources, technical expertise, logistical support, and institutional backing, stakeholders can significantly enhance the impact and reach of our project.

Moreover, collaboration and partnership among stakeholders are essential for addressing the complex challenges associated with malaria prevention and control. By fostering synergies, sharing best practices, and coordinating efforts, stakeholders can amplify the effectiveness of interventions, maximize resource utilization, and accelerate progress towards malaria elimination in Nigeria.

11.0. Call for State of the Map Nigeria 2024

We cannot conclude this presentation without inviting our global audience to prepare to participate in the forthcoming State of the Map (SotM) Nigeria conference in October 2024. This unique event annually brings together OpenStreetMap enthusiasts, GIS professionals, academics, humanitarian organizations, government agencies, and private sector stakeholders to discuss and advance mapping innovation and practices.

For more inquiries or sponsorship opportunities, please email stateofthemapnigeria@gmail.com.

12.0. Conclusion

Let’s Map our World for SDGs. Let’s Map Mosquito Habitats. Together, we can make a significant impact through citizen science and open mapping.

Refrence

Uniquemappers. (2022, September 8). About us – Uniquemappers. Uniquemappers – Mappers. https://uniquemappers.org.ng/about-us/