Ethiopia Launches Its Pilot National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) with NELGA Support

Ethiopia reached a remarkable milestone with the launch of its Pilot National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI). The event was attended by government officials from the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, the Space Science and Geospatial Institute, partners, and GIZ representatives. This infrastructure marks a crucial step toward advancing the country’s digital transformation by enhancing access to reliable geospatial and land data.

Dr. Yeshirun Alemayehu, State Minister at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, highlighted the strategic importance of NSDI in supporting Ethiopia’s Digital Strategy. He emphasized how it will improve decision-making processes, enabling stakeholders to produce, publish, and share geospatial information, land data, and statistical insights to support national development priorities.

This achievement was made possible through the continuous efforts of Strengthening Advisory Capacities for
Land Governance in Africa (SLGA) programme through the Network of Excellence on Land Governance in Africa (NELGA). The prgramme financed the initiative, further solidifying its mission to enhance land governance systems in the region.

By fostering stronger collaboration, data-driven decisions, and efficient planning, the NSDI will play a transformative role in advancing land governance and digital services across Ethiopia. It reflects the ongoing impact of NELGA/SLGA partnerships in shaping the future of land management on the continent.