The status and role of modern mapping technology in Botswana

Abstract

This paper will address the development and application of modern mapping technology towards the sustainable and economic development of Botswana. Much of the data is already available in relational databases, but the greatest problem lies in processing the data and analysing geographical relationships. The paper will examine the impact of modern data acquisition and processing techniques on the provision of current spatially related data, one of the major tools for sustainable development. The concept and application of spatial processing and the dissemination of those data will be addressed, together with the current situation in Botswana concerning the provision and availability of spatial data. It will then centre about three case studies, based upon Geographical Information Systems (GIS). These will examine the relevance and application of GIS to health statistics, with particular reference to the spread of tuberculosis; the analysis of road traffic accident statistics to identify possible causes and accident black spots; and the monitoring, management and display of wildlife data in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.