The National Workshop on Uganda’s Geodetic Reference Framework (UGRF) was held on November 29, 2024 at Four Points by Sheraton bringing together experts from the surveying and mapping sectors to explore advancements in geodetic systems aimed at supporting land management, disaster monitoring, and sustainable development.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Vianney Lutaaya explained that the Geodetic Reference Framework is not just a positioning system but a transformative tool for land management and spatial data. With the deployment of 40 Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) and integration with global systems, the UGRF ensures reliable and accurate reference points for surveying, mapping, and monitoring key aspects of the country’s development. He noted that while the UGRF has ensured consistency in spatial data across Uganda, challenges such as vandalism and gaps in infrastructure remain. Nevertheless, the framework plays a crucial role in enhancing land administration services and boosting public confidence in the land sector by providing easily accessible and reliable spatial reference points nationwide.
The primary objectives of the UGRF were highlighted, including ensuring consistency in spatial data, enabling accurate disaster monitoring, and building local capacity to manage and maintain the network.
In a session on Uganda’s geo-spatial development, Prof. Moses Musinguzi from Makerere University addressed
theevolving role of surveyors in the country’s national development. He acknowledged that, although surveyors have historically been integral to various sectors, including property management and transportation, their role has been overshadowed by technological advancements, reducing their influence in decision-making processes. He recommended that surveyors expand their expertise to include data management, leadership, and advocacy, urging the profession to adapt to the technological landscape and ensure its long-term relevance.
Mr. John Bosco Ogwang from the Institute of Survey and Land Management presented on the guidelines for Uganda’s CORS (Continuously Operating Reference Stations) network at the UGRF National Workshop, emphasizing the importance of ensuring efficient design, installation, and operation of CORS for national development. The network currently includes 40 government stations and 38 private ones, providing accurate positioning data for land management, infrastructure, and disaster monitoring. CORS stations are classified into four tiers, each serving different purposes, from global research to local needs. Key installation factors include stable sites, reliable power, and high-quality equipment. These guidelines help maintain the network’s accuracy, supporting Uganda’s geodetic infrastructure and contributing to sustainable development.
Dr. Richard Cliffe Ssenyunzi, a GNSS meteorologist from Busitema University, 
presented on the use of GNSS datafor monitoring atmospheric water vapor in Uganda. He explained how GNSS systems, such as GPS and Galileo, offer efficient, cost-effective alternatives to traditional weather prediction tools. By analyzing the delays in GNSS signals caused by atmospheric water vapor, researchers can enhance weather forecasting and disaster preparedness. Dr. Ssenyunzi also discussed challenges related to GNSS data processing and recommended investments in software and agreements for automated data access to improve real-time weather predictions.
Mr. Cyril Romieu, Project Manager of the UGRF, discussed the progress and future directions of the UGRF project. He detailed the evolution of the CORS network, from the initial 12 stations in Phase I to the current 40 stations, which provide precise geodetic data with better than 5 cm accuracy. Romieu emphasized the importance of expanding the network, enhancing training, and updating legal frameworks to ensure the sustainability of the project. The UGRF supports national development by contributing to scientific research, disaster monitoring, and infrastructure planning, while also bolstering Uganda’s position in the international geo-spatial community.
In the closing session, Mr. Johnson Bigiira, representing Johnson Mukaaga, Project Coordinator of the Land 
Component under the Competitive Enterprise and Development Project (CEDP), summarized the workshop’s significance. He highlighted the role of modernized geodetic systems, like those developed under the UGRF, in reducing surveying costs and preventing land-related conflicts caused by inaccurate surveys. He stressed the importance of Uganda’s geo-spatial infrastructure in supporting the global digital economy and urged stakeholders to fully utilize the CORS stations and passive control points established by the UGRF project. He concluded by reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to leveraging geo-spatial technologies for national development.
The workshop underscored the critical role of geo-spatial data in Uganda’s socio-economic transformation and emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to enhance the country’s geodetic infrastructure.
