#MapeandoMeuBairro

#MapeandoMeuBairro is a non-governmental organization, founded in 2017 by a group of dedicated professionals who were intrigued by the transformative potential of open data platforms. Their vision centered on advancing sustainable and inclusive urban development for marginalized communities. The organization was officially registered in Mozambique in 2019 and operates in accordance with the national legal frameworks. The name of the organization encapsulates its purpose and methodological approach. It aspires to empower local communities (Meu) by enabling them to collaboratively generate spatial data and co-produce urban plans (Mapeando) for disadvantaged urban areas (Bairro). This endeavor is conducted by employing accessible open-source tools and techniques (#). #MapeandoMeuBairro utilizes open geographic data and participatory mapping to drive positive change in Mozambique's informal settlements. The core activities of the organization include community mapping, urban planning, capacity building, and advocacy in relation to urban planning regulations. The organization pioneers and employs evolving community mapping techniques to support the creation of open, highly detailed, and continually updated datasets to inform decision-making and support interventions. The organization is committed to pro-poor inclusionary urban planning that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of local communities via democratic and inclusionary approaches. These efforts are used to train and build up capacities of low-income groups to take active participation in the shaping of their physical environment. Beyond direct grassroots initiatives, the organization actively engages with governmental bodies. The advocacy efforts seek to advance the potential of open data in democratizing urban management, within low-income countries and particularly Mozambique.