Joan Nsiimo: Complex geodata standards hinder community participation in urban planning

Data collected by communities should be used together with residents themselves; otherwise, it loses its value, Joan Nsiimo, a representative of Slum Dwellers International (ACTogether Uganda), said during the event "Transformation of Informal Settlements" at World Urban Forum 13 in Baku.

According to Report, she emphasized that residents possess the most accurate knowledge of their neighborhoods and should be involved in all stages of data work - from door-to-door surveys to verification and later use in municipal projects.

"Technical standards and complex terminology in geodata and cadastral systems often become a barrier to local community participation in urban planning processes," she said.

She also called for closer cooperation between municipalities and residents, including joint field visits and regular data updates involving communities themselves.