Takwimu Zetu

Unveiling Nairobi's Informal Settlements
  • Datavisualization: Exploration of the social and economic realities of these communities
  • Where: Social Hall Exhibition
  • Purpose: presents critical information accessibly and visually, benefiting individuals, educators, policymakers, and researchers alike.
  • Area: Korogocho, Kibera, Mathare and Dandora

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Unveiling Nairobi's Informal Settlements: A Journey Through "Takwimu Zetu"

Imagine Nairobi's informal settlements transformed into an engaging, interactive experience. This is the vision behind "Takwimu Zetu," a groundbreaking project that empowers you to explore the social and economic realities of these communities through the power of data visualization.

Revolutionizing Understanding

"Takwimu Zetu," which translates to "Our Stories" in Swahili, aims to revolutionize the way we understand Nairobi's informal settlements. By leveraging the power of the Godot Engine, a game development engine, the project transforms complex data into captivating, game-like experiences.

Bridging the Gap Between Data and Impact

Gone are the days of dry statistics and reports. "Takwimu Zetu" utilizes low-poly modeling and cutting-edge data visualization techniques to present critical information in a way that is both accessible and visually compelling. This innovative approach bridges the gap between raw data and public understanding, fostering empathy and sparking action.

Exploring the Data Landscape

  • Water Access: Strategically placed water well models on a map, accompanied by point charts revealing the number of beneficiaries, paint a clear picture of water availability across the settlements.
  • Electricity Access: Houses illuminated with varying intensities based on their electricity access highlight the disparities in infrastructure and access to basic necessities.
  • Employment Rates: Interactive stacked bar charts showcase job distribution across sectors like agriculture, service, and industry, providing valuable insights into the economic landscape.
  • Healthcare Facilities: Explore models of hospitals and clinics accompanied by data points on patient statistics, bringing healthcare challenges to the forefront.
  • Crime Rates: Districts color-coded based on varying crime rates provide insights into community safety and potential areas for intervention.

Technology

The Technology Behind the Magic

"Takwimu Zetu" wouldn't be possible without a robust technology stack:

  • Game Engine: Godot Engine, known for its user-friendly interface and versatility, allows the creation of dynamic and interactive experiences.
  • Low Poly Modeling: Blender, a powerful 3D modeling software, is utilized to craft efficient and visually appealing models of buildings and infrastructure within the settlements.
  • Data Visualization: Charts and interactive elements are seamlessly integrated within the Godot Engine, designed to enhance user engagement and understanding of the data.
  • Data Source: Real-world data sourced from reputable sources forms the foundation of the project, ensuring accuracy and relevance within the game environment.

Progress

The Road Ahead: A Future Filled with Promise

The development of "Takwimu Zetu" is well underway, with significant milestones already achieved:

  • Essential data: Successfully acquired, forming the foundation of the project's visualizations.
  • Compelling 3D visualizations: Designed on public health and county budget allocations, showcasing the project's potential.
  • Initial exhibit: Presented to 200 stakeholders, generating valuable feedback to refine and enhance "Takwimu Zetu" further.

Education

Who Can Benefit?

"Takwimu Zetu" caters to a diverse audience seeking a deeper understanding of Nairobi's informal settlements:

  • Individuals: Explore the realities of these communities firsthand and gain a new perspective on their challenges and opportunities.
  • Educators: Utilize "Takwimu Zetu" as an engaging tool to bring social and economic issues to life in the classroom.
  • Policymakers: Gain valuable data-driven insights to inform policy decisions that support the well-being of residents in informal settlements.
  • Researchers: Leverage "Takwimu Zetu" as a platform to explore research questions and gain a deeper understanding of these communities.

Team

Looking Ahead

The development team is committed to further enhancing the project with features like:

  • Enhanced User Interactivity: Implement features for filtering data and exploring specific areas of interest within the settlements, allowing users to delve deeper into the data.
  • Narrative Integration: Introduce narrative elements to contextualize data visualizations and provide historical and social background, creating a richer and more meaningful experience.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Develop a mobile version to broaden accessibility and reach a wider audience, ensuring that "Takwimu Zetu" can empower individuals everywhere.

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