ASSESSMENT OF KENYA'S READINESS FOR GEOSPATIAL DATA INFRASTRUCTURE TAKE OFF

Abstract

Geospatial Data Infrastructure (GDI) is a concept that is a reality in most developed countries today. This concept is however only just beginning to take a foothold in most developing countries. This paper reports on a study to access Kenya's preparedness for GDI take off by evaluating the achievements made thus far in the basic components of GDI: data, technology, policies, institutional framework and people. It is observed that the relatively lukewarm political support and absence of a long-term strategic vision are serious constraints to GDI diffusion. Similarly, the lack of sustainable funding policies and strategies, coupled with the absence of a concise implementation strategy greatly undermine the development of GDI in Kenya. Most geospatial data sets are still in analogue form, are not regularly updated, and their consistency across organizations still needs to be verified. In addition, the absence of an active GIS professional organization greatly handicaps GDI development in Kenya. Nevertheless, despite this largely negative picture, the GDI status in Kenya compares well with those of most other African countries.

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