Event Recap & Highlights

Alle mahad leh the Midowga Gabdhaha Injineerada Gobolka Banaadir (MGI-GB) successfully conducted a highly informative seminar titled:
“Introduction to GIS: Fundamentals and Applications.”

This important session was presented by:
Eng. Maymun Abdi Arale
Master of Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
GIS Specialist & Researcher

Eng. Maymun is among the few Somali women specializing in GIS — a field with growing demand yet limited local expertise. Her session provided participants with both foundational knowledge and practical insights into the world of Geographic Information Systems.

What Happened During the Session

The seminar offered engineering students and professionals a strong introduction to the field of GIS. Eng. Maymun covered a wide range of essential areas, including:

1. Understanding GIS – What It Is and How It Works

Participants learned the basic concepts of:

• Spatial data
• Mapping techniques
• Data collection and integration
• Types of GIS systems and tools

2. GIS Functions & Core Skills

The session explored:

• How maps are created
• How geographical data is analyzed
• Interpreting spatial patterns
• Real-life applications in engineering and environmental studies

3. Applications of GIS in Different Fields

Eng. Maymun demonstrated how GIS is applied in:

• Environmental science
• Urban and regional planning
• Disaster management
• Resource and land-use planning
• Infrastructure and engineering projects

4. Why GIS Matters in Somalia

Participants gained insight into:

• The increasing need for GIS skills
• The shortage of GIS specialists in the country
• Opportunities for young engineers to build careers in this field

Participation & Engagement

The seminar was opened by Eng. Ikraan Abubakar, Chairperson of MGI-GB, who warmly welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of building capacity in emerging engineering fields.

Participants expressed high interest and engagement throughout the session. They gained:
✔ Foundational GIS knowledge
✔ Practical understanding of mapping and spatial analysis
✔ Awareness of the opportunities GIS offers in Somalia’s development
✔ Motivation to explore GIS further academically and professionally

Overall, the session was highly beneficial for all engineers who attended.

Event Details

• Date: 6 June 2024
• Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Location: SIMAD University, Town-Campus Floor 2

Final Note

This seminar reflects MGI-GB’s ongoing commitment to empowering young women engineers by providing learning opportunities, exposure to emerging technologies, and practical career guidance.

We extend our sincere thanks to Eng. Maymun Abdi Arale for sharing her expertise and inspiring the next generation of engineers.