The Use of Geospatial Techniques in Predicting and Monitoring Population Movements in Mogadishu, Somalia

Amina Said, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) - Somalia
Josyline Gikunda, UNFPA-Somalia
Umikaltuma Ibrahim, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Somalia
Mariam Alwi, Head of Population and Development Dept
Felix Mulama, Demographic Specialist
Richard N'getich, Statistical Specialist
Said Abdilahi, Ministry of Planning, Investment and Economic Development

Mogadishu, locally known as Hamar, is the capital city of Banadir Regional Administration and the regional capital of Somalia. The study is undertaken to show how the region exhibits frequent and sporadic population movements. Use of remote sensing and geospatial techniques provides the best tools for population prediction and monitoring the population dynamics in Somalia even for areas that are inaccessible due to security. Geospatial techniques will facilitate faster and continuous updating of the population data, which assists in humanitarian response and implementation of Sustainable Development Goals. The main source of data used in the study was high-resolution satellite imageries: World View and Geo-eye. Through satellite image interpretation, all buildings were digitized. Thereafter, a ground verification and validation was done and further adjustments were made to the data. The study will elaborate how geospatial technique can be used for predicting the population and monitoring the various population dynamics of Mogadishu.