Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Data Management and Usage in Namibia: A Review of GIS Status in Namibia

Namibia, like many of the developing countries in Africa, has yet to identify ways and means of communicating the importance and implementation of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and spatial data management effectively. Many organizations such as key governmental institutions, private- and state-owned organizations lack secure data, reliable access to centrally managed information for their organizations and that of their stakeholders, at national level. Spatial data is a key resource for the development of a nation. Much economic potential is locked away in spatial data collections, and this potential is realized by making the data widely available. With these concerns in mind, this research investigated how GIS and spatial data- management is being handled and implemented in Namibia. Through this research it is hoped to illustrate the level of understanding regarding the significance of GIS and spatial data-management in Namibia. Furthermore, the role of organizations involved in GIS and spatial data-management is also addressed. In addition, this research seeks to explain how the data are centralized in these organizations, and at what level. The most important part of the research is the current strategic plan compiled for the implementation of GIS systems in organizations. Namibia, like many of the developing countries in Africa, has yet to identify ways and means of communicating the importance and implementation of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and spatial data management effectively. Many organizations such as key governmental institutions, private-and state-owned organizations lack secure data, reliable access to centrally managed information for their organizations and that of their stakeholders, at national level. Spatial data is a key resource for the development of a nation. Much economic potential is locked away in spatial data collections, and this potential is realized by making the data widely available. With these concerns in mind, this research investigated how GIS and spatial data- management is being handled and implemented in Namibia. Through this research it is hoped to illustrate the level of understanding regarding the significance of GIS and spatial data-management in Namibia. Furthermore, the role of organizations involved in GIS and spatial data-management is also addressed. In addition, this research seeks to explain how the data are centralized in these organizations, and at what level. The most important part of the research is the current strategic plan compiled for the implementation of GIS systems in organizations. In terms of the research conducted, use was made of a questionnaire and stakeholder-consultation meetings. A Political, Economic, Social and Technological (PEST) analysis tool was also used to evaluate the extent and survival of GIS and spatial data- management in Namibia, focusing on positive as well as negative aspects. The result of this research would serve to benefit the Namibian government, private state-owned companies, private companies, tertiary education institutions and the GIS community at large, within as well as outside of the country.