Impact

To say that unchecked soil erosion in the Kasai region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a direct threat to livelihoods and food security for local communities is no exaggeration. Thwarted by “mega” erosion and habitual flooding that carves deep gullies and impassable areas into the landscape, villagers are increasingly cut off from Tshikapa, the capital city of Kasai Province and a main trade area. This has a devastating effect on livelihoods and food supply.

Mangroves are an ecological treasure, thriving in coastal regions and serving as vital habitats for wildlife, natural protectors against soil erosion, and economic lifelines for communities. However, their existence is under increasing threat due to human activity, rising sea levels, and coastal erosion. Recognising the critical importance of mangroves, FarmCom, based in Kilifi, Kenya, has taken on the ambitious task of restoring mangrove ecosystems and empowering local youth to take charge of their environment.

Ghana’s coastline is undergoing rapid transformation due to coastal erosion, impacting local communities, ecosystems, and economic activities. To better understand and address these changes, researchers are leveraging satellite data and geospatial tools to monitor shoreline shifts and develop solutions. 

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the mission of Digital Earth Africa (DE Africa). Across the continent, women are making significant contributions to science, Earth observation, and GIS, using data to drive sustainable solutions for their communities. DE Africa actively works with partners to support and empower women in these fields, recognizing the critical role they play in shaping Africa’s future.

In a newly released video, three remarkable women share their experiences and insights on how DE Africa is making an impact:

The impact of living organisms, fauna and flora, on built structures of cultural significance is not yet fully understood. Studies in temperate regions show that plants and animals can sometimes damage stone buildings, while in other cases, they might protect or help preserve them. In tropical countries, however, those findings are not yet known - something that scientist Jokotola Omidiji is clearing up.

Heritage Day in South Africa is celebrated on 24 September each year, and it provides an opportunity to recognise the rich and diverse heritage that is woven into the fabric of Africa. As a continent we are very closely linked to our heritage - it plays an active role in our lives. But preservation of this rich heritage is not only in our lived experience; it is also in managing and protecting the sites of our heritage.

Climate change champion Abdulai Alhassan uses Digital Earth Africa to monitor environmental changes in Ghana, and his preliminary findings indicate concerning deforestation in the northern regions of Ghana. Deforestation is a significant problem in Ghana, with an estimated 1.6% of the country's forest cover lost each year.

In the vast landscapes of Burkina Faso, a dedicated geoscientist is making a profound impact on the safety and sustainability of dam water resources. Meet Rodrigue, a 15-year veteran with a wealth of experience in natural resources.

Hailing from the University of Dschang in Cameroon, Rodrigue's academic journey started with geology and eventually led him to specialize in hydrogeology. With a strong background in these disciplines, Rodrigue embarked on a career that traversed the realms of public, private, and non-governmental organisations.

By Luke Williams (first published in the Sunday Nation, 30 May 2021) 

Climate change touches every aspect of our lives from the food we eat, to the energy we produce and our own health and wellbeing.  We share the impacts of this global problem, and there has never been a more pressing need for a collaborative solution. We can work together to galvanise action against climate change.