Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda has made an appeal to scientists to make their innovations more valuable and improve the quality of livelihoods of ordinary Ugandans.
He said that African countries continue to grapple with development challenges like land degradation, high urbanization, climate change and avoidable disasters which could be prevented using scientific satellite systems.
The Premier was Monday morning speaking at the opening of the International Conference of the African Association of Remote Sensing of the Environment hosted by Makerere University at Hotel Africana which is themed ‘Our Earth, Our Heritage: Harnessing geospatial technologies for achieving sustainable development goals in Africa’.
“The recent adopted SDGs give specific focus to transformation of the world by increasing human prosperity and inclusive development. If well harnessed, Geospatial technology presents possibilities to address some of the existing contemporary challenges.”
“Rwanda recently launched a system where drones will deliver blood to patients. I call on innovators to come up with such practical solutions that are relevant to our people. We should create our own Silicon Valley that reduces environmental pressures such as the disasters that Uganda is prone to,” Rugunda added.
Government, he revealed has already set up a National Emergency Coordination Center for real time data assessment and is planning to establish a National Remote Sensing Centre.
The AARSE President Jide Kufoniyi too in his remarks pointed out the vital role of Geo data in achieving the global development agenda (SDGs) through space technology, research, education and training.
“The objective of this biennal conference is to increase awareness on empowering and enhancing benefits of applying and utilizing the products of geo technological solutions,” Kufoniyi noted.
Prof. Ddumba Sentamu the Vice Chancellor Makerere University in his remarks said; “A knowledge based economy is a key driver of a transformed society. We as academic institutions are committed to adapting our training to address issues relating to sustainability.
The weeklong conference brings together international constituents including; policy makers, scientists, developers, users, service providers and students.
It will feature technical plenary, special sessions, parallel sessions consisting of oral and interactive paper presentations, pre- and post-conference workshops, scientific and commercial exhibitions of services and the AARSE General Assembly.