27 July 2007

Conference call for global action

Senior representatives and leaders from worldwide mapping organisations have resolved to encourage the importance of maps and geographic information in Africa, following the successful 2007 Cambridge Conference of national mapping organisations.

Implementation of the Millennium Goals in Africa project and ensuring the success of the African Geodetic Reference Frame (AFREF) were just two of a series of resolutions agreed by delegates at the end of the Conference.

Other resolutions covered the importance of good data collection and management; the development of national mapping organisation reputation; use of technology; knowledge sharing through web portals; and engagement with decision makers.

The Conference – hosted by Britain’s Ordnance Survey – was attended by 221 delegates from 70 countries across the world. It was a unique occasion, giving top experts the chance to discuss mapping and land management issues of global importance.

Kate Adie OBE, the internationally renowned BBC reporter, launched the 2007 Cambridge Conference at an English garden party in the historic surroundings of St John’s College on the banks of the River Cam.

Held every four years, this year’s varied and stimulating Conference programme included exhibitions, speeches, debates and presentations. The theme of this year's Conference was “Expanding horizons in a shrinking world”. Delegates debated a range of issues – from the uses of new technologies through to new and closer ways of working with our counterparts across the planet.

Sallie White, the Cambridge Conference Manager, says, "Ordnance Survey has been delighted to stage this event once again, giving the world’s leaders in our industry the opportunity to share ideas and learn".

The main Conference programme was supported by a series of social events, which included 57 performers, 6 punts, a chocolate fountain and a Nintendo Wii game. Throughout the five days 3,550 teas and coffees, 1,110 lunches, 1,053 breakfasts and 992 dinners were served.

The Cambridge Conference, which can trace its roots back to 1928, provides a platform for the heads of national mapping organisations to discuss matters of mutual interest face to face. The invitation-only Conference is continuing to become ever more global.

More information about the 2007 Conference can be found at www.cambridgeconference.com.

Note to editors

Ordnance Survey and the OS Symbol are registered trademarks of Ordnance Survey. BBC is a registered trademark of The British Broadcasting Corporation. Nintendo Wii is a registered trademark of Nintendo Co, Ltd.

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