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Disaster reduction through data science and remote sensing in the Western Rift (DRIFT)

Project Aim

To strengthen the capacity of the Western Rift region (Uganda-DRC border) to predict and mitigate disaster risks by integrating local expertise with cutting-edge data science and remote sensing technologies.

Project Objectives

  1. To facilitate a two-way exchange of knowledge and skills on data science and remote sensing for disaster risk reduction.

  2. To provide hands-on training in GIS, satellite data analysis, and open-source risk assessment tools tailored to the regional context.

  3. To co-develop locally relevant methodologies, tools (e.g., risk maps, data dashboards), and policy recommendations for hazard monitoring through a collaborative hackathon.

  4. To foster long-term regional collaboration and institutional partnerships for sustained hazard resilience and interdisciplinary disaster risk research.

  5. To equip early-career researchers and practitioners with practical skills in hazard monitoring and data science.

Project Outcomes

  1. Capacity Building: 60 participants (from DRC, Uganda, and internationally) gain practical skills in GIS, remote sensing, and data science for disaster risk management, with a focus on young professionals.

  2. Co-created Solutions: Development of usable tools and methodologies for hazard monitoring that integrate local expertise and advanced technologies.

  3. Strengthened Partnerships: Joint planning, knowledge exchange, and mutual learning that contribute to strengthening long-term regional partnerships, aligning with MMU’s strategic objectives.

  4. Knowledge Dissemination: Creation of an online resource hub and online seminars to extend learning and benefits beyond the workshop.

  5. Sustained Collaboration: Fostering of long-term institutional partnerships and interdisciplinary research networks between MMU, the University of Goma, and Cambridge University.

Team Members

  1. John Sekajugo (PhD): Project PI (Mountains of the Moon University, Uganda) – Co-lead and main coordinator.
  2. Maximillian Van Wyk de Vries: Project PI (University of Cambridge, UK) – Co-lead for administrative and technical purposes.
  3. Blaise Mafuko: Project PI (University of Goma, DRC) – Co-lead, expert in volcanic hazards.
  4. Professor Caroline Trotter: Director of Cambridge-Africa (Funder contact).

Project Period

1 year, from 1st October 2025 to 1st October 2026.

Project Funder

The Mastercard Foundation and University of Cambridge Climate Resilience and Sustainability Research Fund (CReSus RF).

Project Leadership

The project is co-led by three Principal Investigators:

  1. Mountains of the Moon University (MMU), Uganda (Main coordinator & workshop convener)
  2. University of Cambridge, United Kingdom (Lead for administrative purposes)
  3. University of Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo

Principal Investigator

  1. Dr. John Sekajugo (Mountains of the Moon University, Uganda) – MMU PI and main coordinator.

  2. Maximillian Van Wyk de Vries (University of Cambridge, UK) – Cambridge PI and lead for administrative purposes.

  3. Blaise Mafuko (University of Goma, DRC) – DRC PI.