From Data to Action: Driving Change in Namibia's Informal Settlements

By Namibia Flying Labs

In 2022, the United Nations Innovation Technology Accelerator for Cities (UNITAC) Hamburg launched an ambitious project, “Just transitions in vulnerable places - Digital solutions for more climate resilient informal areas in Namibia.” Fast forward to 2023, a diverse group of urban professionals and tech experts came together to discuss the project's main topics at the symposium themed, “Urban Technology & Collaboration in Informal Settlements: Enhancing Livelihoods and Empowering Communities.” Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), this three-year project aims to foster just and green transitions in sustainable urban development and digital transformation. Namibia is among the implementing countries, where the focus is on developing climate resilient neighborhoods and communities.

Flying Labs Namibia poster - Urban Technology & Collaboration in Informal Settlements: Enhancing Livelihoods and Empowering Communities Symposium

One key module of the project centers on enhancing climate resilience in Namibia's informal settlements. This involves the development of digital urban data platforms to facilitate evidence based decision making, for citywide informal settlements’ upgrading. Leveraging existing urban initiatives; the project employs mapping, data collection, management, and governance to provide climate-smart basic infrastructure in informal settlements. 

Notably, a Flying Labs Namibia mapping project in the Ombili Informal Settlement, in Otjiwarongo Municipality, exemplifies the use of technology, particularly for urban planning. By focusing on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 6, 10, and 11; the project has produced valuable orthomosaic and shack density grid data, for analysis; aiding in addressing the challenges of growing informal settlements and service provision.  

The symposium, held from 14 - 16 November 2023 at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), in Windhoek, served as a platform to showcase these innovative initiatives. Co-hosted by various organizations including NUST, Slum Dwellers International (SDI), the African Centre for Cities (ACC), and UNITAC Hamburg; the event shed light on the importance of digital solutions in advancing climate resilience and equitable urban development. Special recognition goes to UNITAC Hamburg, for featuring the impactful work of Flying Labs Namibia.

Urban Technology & Collaboration in Informal Settlements: Enhancing Livelihoods and Empowering Communities Symposium (Images Source: NUST and UNITAC Hamburg)