Yet behind every map driving these critical choices lies a question: How do we transform raw spatial data into actionable intelligence?
At the 2025 NewSpace Africa Conference, we spoke with Sohail Elabd, Director of International Strategies at Esri, about the company’s role in answering this challenge.
With decades of global GIS leadership and deep regional roots across Africa, Esri isn’t just providing tools it’s redefining how governments, businesses, and communities harness location intelligence to solve real world problems.
Esri supports GIS education in African schools and universities through globally recognized resources and programs.
In schools, tailored curricula and initiatives like Esri South Africa’s FundaLula programme have led to successful classroom integration.
At the university level, Esri offers various GIS certifications and diplomas, such as the Esri South Africa GIS Diploma, which is endorsed by top education councils.
These efforts help students and professionals build essential GIS skills and contribute to academic and mapping projects across the continent.
Source: https://spaceinafrica.com/2025/05/27/esris-strategic-role-in-africas-digital-transformation/
