Population distribution mapping: the AfriPop dataset Data from Conflict-Affected Regions: Filling-in the Blanks Brussels, 9-10 June 2011 Catherine Linard
AfriPop aims Produce a population distribution dataset: Spatially-detailed (100 m resolution) For the whole of Africa Easily updatable Freely available: Broader objectives: Support cartographic-style derivations of population health metrics Population at risk of malaria estimations
Methods 1. Assemble a database of detailed, contemporary census data Year of population data Spatial resolution of census units
2. Fine scale, accurate mapping of settlement extents Landsat Enhanced Thematic Mapper (ETM) Tatem et al (2004/5) Rem Sens Env Methods
3. Population redistribution according to land cover Population count per admin unit Land cover Population map
Tatem et al (2007) PLoS ONE, Linard et al (2010) GeoJournal / Int J Health Geog AfriPop 2010
AfriPopGRUMPLandScan
How such population distribution maps can be used in emergency situations? Provide spatially-detailed pre-emergency demographic data Provide the essential denominator for population health metrics (beyond admin. unit level) Allow spatially-detailed estimations of populations at risk Can be used to organise intervention coverage/relief Age/gender structure will be mapped soon
Questions How do we fill the spatial and temporal data gaps? How do we keep up with demographic changes? What spatial scales are important? How do we match that of the health data? Can we incorporate human movements? How can we quantify uncertainty?