Digitizing Field Boundaries in Zimbabwe

As part of the EOSTAT project, FAO is conducting a field boundary digitizing activity in Zimbabwe from 16 to 29 September. 

The main objective is to create a large dataset of farm boundaries for selected districts. This dataset will be used to develop the farm registry system and as training data for the ResUnet model.

The digitizing activity will target 1 770 beneficiaries across 33 districts.

Additionally, the activity aims to leverage the Youth Mappers, a student club at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST), composed of enthusiastic young geospatial students eager to map the world. A 2-day training workshop is planned, where 15 students will learn digitizing and editing techniques, including topology editing. This will be followed by a 12-day digitizing campaign. An FAO GIS and Remote Sensing officer will conduct the training and participate in the digitizing process to ensure standardization and provide guidance.

Field boundary digital maps are crucial for driving a range of innovations. They support agricultural statistics, enable precision agriculture (e-farming), and facilitate financial and insurance services for farmers.

FAO is committed to leveraging the potential of digital technologies to achieve the Four Betters: better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life for all, leaving no one behind.

 EOSTAT Farmer Registry (arcgis.com)