The Department of Physical Planning, under the Ministry of Sustainable Development, is commemorating GIS Day 2024 with the theme “Empowering a Sustainable Island State through GIS.” The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Unit within the department plays a pivotal role in supporting national development through advanced spatial data tools and technologies.
GIS tools, which analyse and visualise spatial data, have become integral to sustainable development strategies in St. Kitts and Nevis. The Department of Physical Planning leverages these technologies across various government sectors to ensure a resilient and sustainable future.
Key Contributions of GIS
The GIS team collaborates with government agencies and stakeholders to offer services including spatial data management, digital and physical mapping, drone-assisted data collection, and 3D modelling. These tools enable better planning and management of resources, from infrastructure to environmental conservation.
Departments like Public Works track road infrastructure using GIS, while the Ministry of Sustainable Development relies on it for strategic land-use planning. The Water Department monitors assets, and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) uses GIS for disaster response. Even national security teams benefit from GIS insights for improved safety measures.
Empowering the Future
Senior GIS Officer, Josiah Burkett, highlighted the transformative power of GIS.
“Young professionals interested in technology, data, and the environment should see GIS as a promising career. This field will create exciting job opportunities across the Federation, leading us into a more sustainable and informed future,” Burkett shared.
The GIS team also supports educational initiatives, assisting students with school-based assessments (SBAs) and inspiring the next generation of GIS specialists.
Storytelling Through GIS
In celebration of GIS Day on 20th November, a captivating story map titled Sweet Sugar City, crafted by Chezon Tuckett of the Department of Physical Planning, showcases the island’s history through maps, aerial imagery, and stories. This initiative underscores how GIS technology can preserve cultural heritage while supporting forward-looking strategies.
A Tool for Sustainability
The Department of Physical Planning aims to align its GIS initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), collecting and analysing data to track progress on national development priorities. From climate monitoring to community empowerment, GIS is driving informed decision-making across St. Kitts and Nevis.
As the nation celebrates GIS Day, the contributions of this innovative technology in shaping a sustainable island state remain at the forefront.
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