Colombia National Anticipatory Mapathon 2025
May 5, 2025, 2:30 p.m. UTC – June 27, 2025, 2:30 p.m. UTC
Colombia national mapping initiative strengthening disaster risk knowledge through open data, youth leadership, and community-driven cartography in collaboration with the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD), the Agustín Codazzi Geographic Institute (IGAC), and further strengthened by the leadership of youth mapping collectives such as YouthMappers, SAGEMA, and TadeoMappers, as well as youth networks like the National Network of Youth for the Environment and the Youth Network for Disaster Risk Reduction in Colombia.
Context
The Annual National Anticipatory Mapathons (MANA) are a regional initiative led by the Latin America and Caribbean Open Mapping Hub (LAC Hub) of the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) to address critical gaps in geospatial data across disaster-prone territories. By mobilizing communities, institutions, and volunteers in time-bound mapping efforts, MANA strengthens risk prevention, territorial planning, and anticipatory action.
Colombia
In Colombia, where geographic diversity increases exposure to floods, landslides, and other hazards, accurate and up-to-date maps are essential for saving lives. However, many rural and peripheral areas still lack the data needed to anticipate and respond effectively to emergencies.
The Colombia National Anticipatory Mapathon is led by the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD), with technical support from HOT and backing from the Agustín Codazzi Geographic Institute (IGAC). Embedded within the National Risk Knowledge Strategy, the initiative engages youth mapping collectives, universities, and community networks to update critical cartography.
The data generated through this mapathon supports the identification of hazard zones, evacuation routes, and key infrastructure, enabling evidence-based decision-making and strengthening Colombia’s capacity for disaster preparedness and response.
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