I am a GIS and Remote Sensing specialist with 7+ years of experience in environmental resource mapping, data analysis, and policy support. I’m passionate about leveraging geospatial technologies (Google Earth Engine, R-Studio, ESRI Suite) to drive conservation and sustainable development. Seeking to advance innovative algorithms for real-time environmental monitoring.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Regional GIS Officer
Wetlands International
11.2021 - Current
I lead GIS and remote sensing initiatives across Eastern Africa, driving wetland conservation and sustainable land-use planning. My work includes developing spatial tools (Google Earth Engine, ArcGIS), conducting MRV for wetland restoration projects, and training partners on geospatial technologies.
Assisted in the planning and execution of large-scale GIS projects, ensuring that all milestones were met within established timelines.
I contributed to creating the World’s first near-real-time mangrove monitoring system using Sentinel-2 data, improving response times by 40%.
Created user-friendly reports summarizing critical findings from geospatial analyses for non-technical stakeholders.
Additionally, I standardize data workflows, produce interactive maps for stakeholders, and represent the organization in high-level forums, bridging technical solutions with conservation impact.
Training Consultant
InDepth Research Services (IRES)
08.2019 - 10.2021
I designed and delivered GIS and remote sensing training programs for diverse clients across Africa. My role involved developing a curriculum on geospatial tools (QGIS, ArcGIS), mobile data collection (ODK, Kobo), and their applications in natural resource management.
I trained 100+ professionals, enhancing their capacity in spatial analysis and data-driven decision-making.
Through tailored workshops and follow-up support, I empowered organizations to implement geospatial solutions for environmental monitoring and project planning.
Cultivated relationships with stakeholders, ensuring clear communication of expectations and progress updates throughout the training process.
GIS Internships
Several Organisations
01.2017 - 10.2019
Conservation International: Supported Kenya’s CBIT Project on GHG Inventories under the LULUCF sector (2019)
Kenya Water Towers Agency: Mapped critical catchments using participatory community mapping and ground truthing (2018)
Geoinformation for Natural Resource Management: Remote sensing analysis for crop identification based on crop phenological calendar criteria (2017)
Education
Master of Science - GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Led the development of Wetlands International Eastern Africa's Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning framework
Pioneered Africa's first near-real-time mangrove loss detection system (Global Mangrove Watch)
Publications
Bunting, P., Hilarides, L., Rosenqvist, A., Lucas, R. M., Kuto, E., Gueye, Y., Ndiaye, L., Global Mangrove Watch: Monthly Alerts of Mangrove Loss for Africa, Remote Sensing, 2023, https://doi.org/10.3390/rs15082050
Kuto, K. E., Monitoring Tree Cover Changes in Kenya's Five Major Water Towers using Geospatial Technologies, University of Nairobi, 2020, https://erepository.uonbi.ac.ke/handle/11295/153049
Languages
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Swahili
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Timeline
Regional GIS Officer
Wetlands International
11.2021 - Current
Training Consultant
InDepth Research Services (IRES)
08.2019 - 10.2021
GIS Internships
Several Organisations
01.2017 - 10.2019
Master of Science - GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS
University of Nairobi
Bachelor of Science - ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
Kenyatta University
Drones
Kenya Civil Aviation Authority
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