26th May 2026
Thank you for engaging with our Humanitarian Tech webinar provided in partnership with Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team and Public Tech Studio.
Download the slide deck and watch the recording here:
The 90 minute session explored real life case studies on how communities, open data and technology are shaping humanitarian response for today and the future – from Haiti, to Senegal, Lagos – Nigeria to Sierra Leone.
Participants learned how data and technology is being used across the world in data collection and mapping to solve real problems from transportation, to disaster response, safety and security and more. In addition to discussing present and potential challenges, participants and panelists considered the impact of AI and measures to ensure sustainability. Importantly, this webinar emphasised the importance of community-led approaches and localisation in humanitarian response.
Helpful resources
- KAYA for free courses from the HLA
- Course on open mapping (data use, tech tools, concepts): https://learn.hotosm.org
- Openaerialmap (free high-resolution aerial imagery repository): https://openaerialmap.org/
- HOT end-to-end mapping solution: https://www.hotosm.org/en/tools-resources/tech-product-suite/
- www.PublicTech.studio
- www.LagosFerries.com
- Joint blog post with HOT on the ferry mapping
About the Speakers
Omowonuola Akintola is a Geospatial and Data Specialist at Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT), adept at using geospatial technology to create innovative solutions that refine data across Africa, driving climate change and local development. With her technical expertise and active community volunteering, she offers a unique perspective on addressing societal needs.
Hannah Kates is a civic technology and data product leader with over a decade of experience delivering data-driven solutions in Africa, Asia, and the United States. Prior to founding Public Tech Studio, she served as Head of Product at Stears (Pan-African data intelligence company) and then started Stears Open Data, the company’s non-profit initiative.
Melodee Okigbo is a Communications Strategist intern at Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT), who crafts stories and strategies around open mapping and humanitarian response. With a passion for elevating local voices and making technical projects accessible, she’s working to bridge strategy, storytelling, and social impact.