G-SIG President Highlights Geospatial Technology for Disaster Mapping and Climate Change Monitoring in Timor-Leste During 5th National Climate Change Conference
Dili, 23–24 October 2024 – The Association of Grupo Sistema Informasaun Geografia (G-SIG) proudly participated in the 5th National Climate Change Conference, held at the CCD Hall in Dili. The event was organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Environment in collaboration with the Climate Change Working Group, and brought together government officials, local and international partners, students, and community leaders to deliberate on strategic approaches and innovative solutions aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change in Timor-Leste. This year’s conference theme centered on “Strengthening Climate Action to Enhance Resilience in Vulnerable Regions.”
Through the generous support of World Vision Timor-Leste, G-SIG’s participation was made possible, providing a platform to showcase its pioneering efforts in leveraging geospatial technology for disaster preparedness and climate change response. During the conference, the President of G-SIG, Ponciano da Costa de Jesus delivered a presentation on the Association’s initiatives in digital mapping to support anticipatory action, including the deployment of open-source mobile applications for disaster monitoring across the Bobonaro and Covalima.
The presentation aimed to share valuable insights and practical applications of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology currently employed by G-SIG in mapping disaster-prone areas and monitoring the impacts of climate change, particularly El Niño and drought impact monitoring in Timor-Leste.
This session was attended by over 80 young participants and key representatives from relevant institutions, including UN agencies, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and various international NGOs operating in Timor-Leste. The G-SIG President highlighted the tangible benefits and successful outcomes of using GIS in climate change adaptation and natural disaster management. Specific emphasis was placed on recent G-SIG mapping activities conducted in Bobonaro and Covalima Municipalities, supported by World Vision Timor-Leste, as part of anticipatory action initiatives addressing flood risks and El Niño-induced drought impacts. G-SIG expressed its deep appreciation for the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from conference participants, especially the enthusiastic engagement of youth and students who demonstrated strong interest in the role of GIS in environmental monitoring and disaster risk reduction.
The Association extends its sincere gratitude to World Vision Timor-Leste for its continued partnership and invaluable support, and to all participants, including students, young leaders, and agency representatives, whose active involvement and thought-provoking questions enriched the presentation session.
With steadfast support from its partners and donors, G-SIG reaffirms its commitment to serving as a youth-led association in advancing geospatial technology for environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and disaster preparedness in Timor-Leste.