Africa’s geospatial community is preparing for an unprecedented gathering as two major continental conferences—the GISAFRICA (AfricaGIS) Conference and the United Nations Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM Africa) Workshop on the United Nations Integrated Geospatial Information Framework (UN-IGIF)—come together in Accra.
This joint event is set to create one of the most comprehensive platforms ever assembled to advance geospatial innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development across the continent.
Held from 17–19 November 2025, the dual conferences will bring together policymakers, government agencies, international experts, academia, private sector innovators, and development partners.
The combined event strengthens Africa’s momentum toward enhanced geospatial information management, improved national planning, and accelerated progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A Unified Platform for Africa’s Geospatial Future
The UN-IGIF Workshop—organized by UN-GGIM Africa, the United Nations Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Centre (UN-GGKIC), UNECA, and partners—will focus on strengthening national geospatial capacities, country-level action plans, and leadership development.
Running alongside it, the GISAFRICA Conference (AfricaGIS 2025) will feature plenaries, exhibitions, youth forums, and technical sessions showcasing Africa’s advancements in geospatial technology, Earth observation, AI mapping, land governance, and climate resilience tools.
Together, the merged conferences will offer unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, policy dialogue, and innovation-sharing across sectors and countries.
Statements from Conference Leaders
Dr. Surv. Ing. Samuel Larbi Darko, Chair of the Local Organising Committee, expressed pride in Ghana hosting both events simultaneously.
He said, “Bringing these two high-level conferences together creates a powerful platform for Africa. It allows us to harmonize national and regional efforts, showcase our innovations, and jointly shape the continent’s geospatial development agenda. Ghana is honoured to host experts and leaders championing Africa’s future.”
The International Organising Committee Chair, Mr. Sives Govender, highlighted the global significance of the dual conferences.
“This combined event amplifies Africa’s voice in the global geospatial community. It reinforces our collective commitment to strengthening geospatial ecosystems, promoting digital public infrastructure, and driving the adoption of UN-IGIF across the region. Collaboration at this scale is invaluable for achieving sustainable development.”
Government Support and High-Level Opening
Organizers confirmed that the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Alhaji Yusif Sulemana, will officiate the opening ceremony.
His participation underscores the Ghanaian government’s commitment to harnessing geospatial information for national development, land administration, environmental sustainability, and digital transformation.
What to Expect from the Dual Conferences
Participants will benefit from:
- High-level plenary sessions and policy dialogues
- A multi-stakeholder workshop on UN-IGIF implementation
- AfricaGIS technical sessions, exhibitions, and innovation showcases
- Leadership development sessions
- Youth, academia, and private sector engagement
- Country case studies on geospatial reforms and national action plans
- Networking for partnerships, investment, and collaboration
The conferences also address urgent continental challenges including climate change, urbanization, food security, disaster response, and digital inclusion.
A Call to Action for African Countries
Both organizing committees stress that the joint event represents a historic opportunity for African nations to strengthen geospatial infrastructure, close data gaps, and embrace digital transformation.
Stakeholders across government, private sector, academia, civil society, and international organizations are encouraged to secure their participation and be part of this landmark continental event.
Information about the event and registration can be done through www.eis.africa
