Nairobi, Keynia. Following the successful “mapathon” that took place in Washington in April 2011, The World Bank, UNOSAT, and Google.org are confirming their engagement in pursuing the collaborative effort to map important locations in South Sudan with the support of the Sudanese people themselves by organising a second event in Nairobi, Kenya on June 30, 2011.   Like the first, this second happening aims at unleashing the power of collaborative mapping to support the building of the world’s soon-to-be-newest independent nation.  Without basic geospatial information, it is difficult for the government, civil society, development partners, and other stakeholders to evaluate risks and assess needs, target efforts, and mobilize proper resources.

The first collaborative mapping event held in April at the World Bank Headquarters in Washington D.C. together with a parallel event in Nairobi saw more than 90 members of the Sudanese diaspora, along with regional experts gathered together to map what is expected to become the world’s newest country later this year.   For the second mapping event the organisers have called on additional global and regional partners to reach out to volunteers and others who have current local geographic knowledge of the country. Although expert knowledge of mapping software is not a requirement to participate, good familiarity with computers is strongly recommended.

All those interested in attending the event are requested to register to be able to participate in the event before Friday, June 15.

When: June 30, 2011 Where: NAIROBI: iHub -- 4th Floor, Bishop Magua Building , Ngong Road ,Opposite Uchumi.

For more information please visit the event’s site.