MMUST Begins Preparations to Host GIS Day 2026 After Benchmarking Visit to Kenyatta University by Geospatial Information Science Students
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has begun preparations to host the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day 2026. This comes after a benchmarking visit to Kenyatta University (KU) by two (2) of MMUST students pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Geospatial Information Science, which is housed under the School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA). Ms. Caroline Kimamo and Mr. Denise Kiplagat, who are also officials of the Geospatial Information Science Students Association (GISSA)-MMUST Chapter, attended this year’s GIS Day celebration, held at KU on 19th November, 2025. The event brought together GIS professionals, stakeholders and organizations, providing Caroline and Denise with a great opportunity to learn, network and gain valuable insight into organizing the globally-celebrated day.
In an interview with DCCM regarding the preparations, the Dean-SDMHA, Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa, revealed that GIS Day is an annual event celebrated globally on the third week of November. “This event, pioneered by the Environmental Systems Research Institute-ESRI, is aimed at promoting public awareness and understanding of Geographic Information Systems technology. I am happy to point out that MMUST maintains an active Collaborative Agreement with ESRI, and we look forward to hosting next year’s celebration,” stated Dr. Nabiswa. In addition, the Dean noted that his School encourages students to build professional connections by taking part in such activities as well as joining Associations, including GISSA.
GIS Day 2025 participants at Kenyatta University.
Notably, the preparations to host the GIS Day at MMUST are being spearheaded by GISSA, whose patron is Dr. Nabiswa. According to Denise (Chairperson) and Caroline (Organizing Secretary), the Association currently has over thirty (30) members, drawn from different Departments. The club aims to ensure the success of the upcoming event, as it is committed to raising awareness of the diverse applications of GIS and bringing together professionals in the industry to create a platform for idea exchange and networking.
As the University gears up to host the GIS Day 2026, the event is very likely to highlight the power of Geographic Information Systems in solving real-world challenges. There is no doubt that the event will attract participants from across the country to explore innovative applications and share knowledge, while at the same time showcasing how spatial data can drive informed decision-making and sustainable development.
