GIS Mapping
A GIS is an advanced tool for mapping and analyzing geographical data. With regard to water-resource management in Kenya, a GIS may be employed to record the locations and attributes of all water resources along with all climatic, demographic, geologic, and topographic features by region, or nationwide. In short, a GIS would enable a Kenyan analyst to view all water resources in their proper and accurate context, determine regional water topology, and make correctly informed water-resource decisions.
Quiet Way will introduce GIS technology to and partner with local-level officials and other stakeholders to effect significant and lasting changes in the management of Kenyan water resources. Local Kenyans will receive training and participate in all phases of GIS implementation from data collection to data analysis. The local officials will take ownership of and receive credit for the project. Other stakeholders will receive access to the GIS data for decision making through a web-based GIS viewer, making the process transparent.
Implementation
Implementation of a functioning and quality GIS in Kenyan will require significant time, resources, cooperation, and patience. It will need to occur in three phases, which are explained below.
Phase I – Data Collection
The Quiet Way team will work with representatives of select water stakeholders in Kenya in determining all water-resource data that are needed to enable effective decision making. During each phase of our process key data will be mapped and analyzed. These data will range from simple GPS coordinates to usage level, output volume, purity, and other water-resource attributes.
Phase II – Using the Data
Each county will be connected to a regional, centrally-managed GIS network. The central network hub will compile data from each county and make it available online to all interested parties. Quiet Way’s coalition will begin using the data to develop a well-informed, county-specific strategy.
Phase III – Expansion
Once the initial GIS network and personnel are reliably functioning, Quiet Way will work with various stakeholders to implement the data-driven strategic plan. Quiet Way will conduct a robust impact analysis of the program, and if it is found to contribute significantly and positively to the resolution of water-resource mismanagement then plans will be prepared for nation-wide implementation.
