I recently interviewed Anthony Quartararo, CEO of Spatial Networks, about his company’s efforts to map Afghanistan. The project is a close collaboration with the national mapping agency and employs a host of locals in fieldwork. The knowledge transfer that is taking place is a very positive leave behind that creates sought after skills and ensures that maps can be maintained. The locals are also feeling a sense of empowerment as they’re documenting their country’s infrastructure in order aid in economic development.
Here’s a comment at the heart of the mapping effort:
“Our perspective as geographers is that geography is the center of the universe. If you don’t have a good mastery of geography and geospatial data as a foundation for economic growth, then you’re not going to be very successful in your economic growth strategy.”
Read the full interview here.
