International Knowledge Forum 2024: Geo-intelligence for Resilient Land Governance

The International Knowledge Forum (IKF 2024), held from September 25 to 27 at the Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II in Rabat, Morocco, brought together African experts in land governance and geospatial sciences. Under the theme, “Geo-intelligence: Intelligent Land Governance for Resilient Territories,” the Forum, organized by the North African node of the Network of Excellence on Land Governance in Africa (NELGA), focused on advancing geo-intelligence technologies for sustainable territorial management.

With objectives of promoting innovative geo-intelligence applications, strengthening regional expertise, and fostering knowledge exchange, the Forum highlighted inclusive governance, resilient land policies, and the role of regional cooperation. Key recommendations emphasized the need for accessible, high-quality data to support effective land management, the inclusion of women and youth in governance, and the adoption of context-specific policies.

Participants underscored the importance of South-South partnership to develop and use technology that is adapted to local needs. Initiatives like NELGA and the Arab Land Initiative were spotlighted for their efforts to promote regional cooperation. Additionally, the Forum advocated for capacity building through programs like the ones to be initiated by the Land Governance Academy at IAV, aimed at training stakeholders in land governance and geospatial technologies.

IKF 2024 concluded with a call to strengthen institutional capacities and continue the exchange of best practices across Africa, positioning forums like IKF as crucial for sustainable and collaborative land governance efforts on the continent.