We live in the era of digital revolution where the internet and all manner of tech devices have changed the world for the better like never before. Also known as the third industrial revolution, the unprecedented phenomenon has successfully midwifed e-commerce, e-payment, e-learning, e-meetings, e- fundraising and much more.
Another important new normal is e-data collection. This is the process of gathering information using electronic devices and systems. The gathered information can be used for research, surveys, case studies and focus groups but the same can even influence marketing or advertising decision-making.
Unlike conventional data, geospatial data combines attributes, namely descriptive information, with geographic coordinates such as latitude and longitude to describe where objects, events exist or occur. This unique characteristic allows for visualization and analysis of spatial relationships, patterns and trends.
When it comes to data collection and analysis for important decision-making, IT expert Khadija Abdulla Ali strongly believes that this is just what the doctor ordered for Zanzibar. Khadija is marvelous revelation as well on what a Zanzibari woman can do, always at their best.
Her belief is not uninformed, finalizing her Master of Science in IT from the State University of Zanzibar, she has worked in a number of high-profile projects that have shaped her conviction that strategic use of spatial technology—the use of software and hardware to collect, store, and analyzing data about real-world locations—can make Zanzibar a better place.
Ms Ali worked in the Zanzibar Mapping Initiative (ZMI) which is one of the largest drone mapping projects in the world. As a core team member, she played a critical role in deploying drones to capture high-resolution imagery across Zanzibar’s islands. The project transformed how land-use data is collected and provided invaluable insights for urban planning, land tenure formalization and environmental management.
“A particularly impactful moment came during the integration of geospatial data into a digitized land tenure system,” she said in an exclusive interview with ZiBi Magazine recently.
“For the first time, thousands of landowners in Zanzibar could access clear and accurate records of their properties. Witnessing how data empowered communities, reduced land disputes, and fostered greater transparency was a turning point in my career. It reinforced my belief in the transformative power of technology to address pressing developmental challenges,”
This experience not only highlighted the real-world impact of geospatial technologies but also inspired Ms. Ali to continue advocating for their adoption in Africa, particularly in areas where data scarcity hinders decision-making. It also earned her invitations to share her expertise at global platforms, further solidifying her role as a leader “Modern technology is indispensable for solving geospatial challenges in Zanzibar, offering tools that enhance data collection, foster resilience, and support sustainable development. By leveraging innovations like Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and community-driven platforms, Zanzibar can address its unique challenges and build a more resilient and well-planned future,” she said.
Zanzibar, with its unique geographical and cultural landscape, faces a variety of geospatial challenges, ranging from urban growth and environmental conservation to disaster management. Modern technology, particularly geospatial data systems and centralized repositories, has emerged as a transformative tool to address the challenges.
Apart from ZMI, she said there are other initiatives that employed technology and significantly addressed Zanzibar’s geospatial issues. These include Zanzibar Mapping Initiative (ZMI) in which high-resolution imagery captured by drones were combined with 3D mapping technologies to create detailed visualizations of Zanzibar’s streets and neighborhoods. This data is used by local governments and urban planners to design road networks, optimize traffic flow, and improve accessibility in rapidly growing urban areas like Stone Town and Ng’ambo – the adjacent area to the Stone Town.
Another initiative is Tourism and Heritage Mapping whereby street-level imagery of iconic areas like Stone Town—captured through specialized cameras and virtual tour platforms—has enhanced Zanzibar’s tourism offerings.
Virtual tours allow global visitors to explore Zanzibar’s historic alleys, spice markets and waterfronts, boosting interest in cultural tourism while minimizing the physical strain on historic sites due to mass tourism.
The third successful project, according to Ms Ali, is OpenStreetMap (OSM) Community Efforts in which local mapping communities supported by international volunteers have worked to add street-level details of Zanzibar to OSM.
This crowd-sourced data includes footpaths, streets, and building details, aiding navigation and offering accurate maps for residents and visitors.
Also, there are NGO and Private Initiatives in which some non-profit and private entities have used street-level imagery to assess infrastructure, document environmental changes, and improve access to public services. For instance, initiatives in Ng’ambo have utilized such technologies to guide urban renewal projects.
With these successful previous efforts, use of geospatial technology is not unchartered waters for Zanzibar. However, according to Ms. Ali, Zanzibar can –in many other areas—leverage geospatial data to position itself as a leader in sustainable development.
“For example, by using geospatial technologies to monitor and manage natural resources like mangroves, coral reefs, and marine ecosystems, Zanzibar can showcase successful models for climate adaptation and biodiversity preservation. These efforts can position Zanzibar as a global advocate for environmental sustainability,” she said.
“Also, we can utilize GIS and remote sensing to manage urban growth, improve infrastructure, and address informal settlements. Data-driven planning ensures sustainable cities that balance development with environmental preservation, serving as a model for other regions facing rapid urbanization.”
Furthermore, she stated that by using geospatial data to monitor environmental impact of mass tourism and guide eco-friendly infrastructure development, Zanzibar can establish itself as a leader in eco-tourism. For, this approach not only protects the islands’ natural and cultural heritage but also supports long-term economic growth.
In matters of climate resilience and disaster preparedness, she argued that it is geospatial data that can enable Zanzibar to predict, monitor and respond effectively to climate-related challenges such as coastal flooding and extreme weather. “By demonstrating innovative disaster risk management strategies, Zanzibar can lead global efforts in climate resilience,” she said.
Also, by collaborating with global institutions and showcasing its geospatial innovations at international forums, Zanzibar can attract investments and contribute to global sustainable development agenda. For, sharing its success stories enhances the isles’ reputation as a hub for sustainable solutions and innovation.
For Zanzibar to deploy such state-of-the-art technologies to transform itself into a modern island economy, Ms. Ali argued that such serious business should not be left to the government alone. This is because the government’s role is chiefly to do with leadership and policy frameworks.
“Higher learning institutions like the State University of Zanzibar should focus on research, innovation and capacity building in geospatial technologies. By offering specialized training programmes in GIS, remote sensing and drone mapping, academia can develop a skilled workforce,” she said.
“Collaborative research initiatives with international institutions and industry partners can also address Zanzibar-specific challenges such as coastal erosion and urban sprawl, while contributing to global knowledge. Furthermore, academia can act as a bridge between theoretical advancements and practical applications in the field.”
Ms. Ali noted that private enterprises also play a crucial role in driving innovation and delivering geospatial solutions. To achieve this, companies can develop tailored technologies and services for sectors like tourism, agriculture and urban planning.
“They can also offer expertise in deploying and maintaining geospatial tools such as drones and GIS software and provide real-time data analysis for decision-making. Collaboration with the government and academia can enhance scalability and impact of geospatial projects, ensuring that innovations align with Zanzibar’s development goals,” she stated.
“By working together, these stakeholders can create a dynamic ecosystem for geospatial technology in Zanzibar. The government can provide direction and resources, academia can cultivate talent and conduct research, and private enterprises can bring innovation and market-driven solutions. This synergy will ensure that geospatial technologies are effectively harnessed to address Zanzibar’s unique challenges and opportunities, contributing to its sustainable development and global leadership in the field.”
But what is her vision for the future of geospatial technology in Zanzibar? This is a question that she has an already well thought answer.
“My vision is for Zanzibar to become a centre of excellence in geospatial technology, powered by a centralized geospatial platform that drives government decision-making and sustainable development. This platform should integrate satellite imagery, drone data and GIS systems to provide actionable insights for urban planning, land management, and climate resilience,” she said.
“By fostering innovation through partnerships with institutions like the State University of Zanzibar and global organizations, Zanzibar can build local capacity, attract investment and lead in sustainable geospatial governance. This transformation would position Zanzibar as a model for data-driven development in Africa and beyond.”
Asked about the source of her passion for using technology to address geospatial challenges, she responded by saying, “My passion for using technology to address geospatial challenges is deeply rooted in the transformative potential of innovation to create meaningful change. Growing up in Zanzibar, an island with unique environmental, social, and economic challenges, I witnessed first-hand how limited access to accurate data often hindered decision-making and sustainable development. This inspired me to explore how technology, particularly geospatial tools, could bridge the gap between challenges and solutions.”
“The ability of drones, GIS and remote sensing to reveal insights about land and communities fascinates me. These technologies turn complex problems like coastal erosion, urban sprawl or disaster preparedness into opportunities for action.”
Bi. Khadija, as we will call her in Zanzibari culture, is married with one son, and is currently employed by Tanga Municipality in a project funded by Swiss philanthropic foundation to improve the health and wellbeing of young people living in growing cities around the world. The project has been named as Tanga Yetu.
Bi. Khadija has travelled widely for conferences and workshops but has particularly worked for projects in Zambia, Nigeria, Oman, Uganda, Kenya, Indonesia, US, Zimbabwe and others, no wonder her number one hobby is travelling.
