Benard Okello

Benard Okello

Geospatial Researcher/Specialist & Data Analyst
Bridging spatial science and data analytics to deliver research-driven insights for real-world decisions.

Professional Overview

Welcome to my portfolio! I am a seasoned GIS specialist with ten years of experience in geospatial analysis, remote sensing, environmental management, and a strong focus on geospatial research, applied spatial statistics, and bridging spatial and non-spatial data for comprehensive insights.

Throughout my career, I have led and contributed to various large-scale projects, utilising cutting-edge GIS technologies and tools to provide critical data analysis and support decision-making. My expertise spans from agricultural monitoring, infrastructure development, and data management, equipping me to deliver high-quality geospatial solutions tailored to diverse sectors.

Key Projects

My projects extend beyond applied GIS, contributing valuable insights to geospatial research.

Mapping of Cane Fields for Kabras Sugar

Mapping of Cane Fields for Kabras Sugar West Kenya

Led a team of 70 mappers to collect and analyse geospatial data to update the agricultural database for Kabras Sugar. We utilised smartphones with GPS for field data collection, allowing us to gather precise information about cane field boundaries and farmer details.

Skills Utilized

Spatial Analysis Real-time Data Management Team Leadership GIS Data Collection Database Updates
Outcome: Successfully updated the farmers' database and integrated it with a spatial web map. This innovation enabled real-time spatial analysis, allowing stakeholders to identify fields that were mature and ready for harvest, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making.
Kenyan Standard Gauge Railway Construction

Kenyan Standard Gauge Railway Construction

Played a crucial role in creating the fundamental GIS datasets needed for the construction of the Kenyan Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). This project involved mapping all features along the established corridor, developing detailed terrain models, and identifying key ecosystem areas affected by the railway's path.

Skills Utilized

Terrain Modeling Road Network Analysis Ecosystem Mapping Data Compilation ArcGIS
Outcome: The GIS datasets developed were integral in facilitating the construction process, providing precise spatial insights that supported effective decision-making in infrastructure development. This work minimised potential disruptions to ecosystems and enhanced the project's sustainability.
Entebbe International Airport

Entebbe International Airport GIS Database Update

Tasked with the comprehensive update of the GIS database for Uganda's Entebbe International Airport. Utilised expertise in ArcGIS and AutoCAD to manage spatial data compilation, integrate new geospatial information, and create detailed maps.

Skills Utilized

ArcGIS AutoCAD Spatial Data Compilation Database Management
Outcome: The updated GIS database significantly improved the accuracy and usability of spatial data for airport management, providing a reliable source of geospatial information for operational planning and infrastructure development.
Environmental Monitoring & Conservation

Environmental Monitoring & Conservation

Managed several GIS projects focusing on environmental monitoring and conservation efforts. Analysed satellite imagery, conducted environmental data analysis, and developed geospatial solutions for monitoring changes in land use, vegetation, and ecosystems.

Skills Utilized

Remote Sensing Environmental Analysis Spatial Data Modeling Project Management QGIS
Outcome: Provided detailed spatial analysis and reports that supported sustainable environmental management practices, identifying key areas for conservation and guiding strategic environmental policies.
QGIS Interface PostgreSQL Database Dashboard Visualization

Juba City Mapping: Base Mapping and Land Information Management System

Developed a comprehensive Land Information Management System for Juba, South Sudan. This involved base mapping and integrating data from a PostgreSQL database with QGIS for detailed land use management layers. The project culminated in dashboard visualizations for effective project management and progress tracking.

Skills Utilized

GIS Mapping Database Management QGIS PostgreSQL Dashboarding Land Use Mapping Python Streamlit
Outcome: Provided critical spatial data and visualization tools for urban planning and resource management in Juba, enhancing decision-making for land use and development.
NDVI Analysis 1 NDVI Analysis 2 NDVI Analysis 3 NDVI Analysis 4 NDVI Analysis 5

West Kenya Crop Management & NDVI Analysis

Developed an advanced crop management system for over 100,000 agricultural fields in West Kenya. This system leverages Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) technology to monitor crop growth and health, providing critical insights for optimized agricultural practices and yield prediction. The project involved large-scale data processing and the implementation of a robust analytical framework.

Skills Utilized

NDVI Analysis Remote Sensing Crop Monitoring Large-scale Data Processing GIS Agricultural GIS Google Earth Engine
Outcome: Enabled efficient crop health monitoring and management across vast agricultural lands, leading to improved decision-making for farmers and enhanced crop yields.

Technical Skills

GIS Software

ArcGIS Desktop & Pro
QGIS

Mapping Tools

2D & 3D GIS Analysis
AutoCAD

Data Management

Geoserver
PostGIS & Postgres

Remote Sensing

Lidar Processing
Photogrammetry

Mobile Data Collection

Kobo, Survey123, ODK
Q-Field, GPS, RTK Operation

Cloud Computing

Google Earth Engine - Java
Google Colab - Python

Statistical & Analytical Tools

Python (Pandas, NumPy, SciPy, Streamlit for Dashboard Creation)
Power BI, Excel

Soft Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Building strong professional relationships and collaborating effectively with diverse teams.

Contingency Analysis

Interpretation, diagnosis and proactive problem-solving in complex situations.

Dedication & Commitment

Unrelenting pursuit of project goals with focused determination.

Communication

Clear articulation of technical concepts to diverse stakeholders.

Time Management

Efficient prioritisation and execution of tasks to meet deadlines.

Delegation

Effective assignment of responsibilities to optimise team performance.

Attention to Detail

Analytical approach ensuring precision in all deliverables.

Leadership

Guiding teams to success with vision and inspiration.

Research & Critical Thinking

Applying rigorous methodologies to explore complex geospatial problems and derive actionable insights.

Capacity Building

Proven ability to train and mentor teams, enhancing their skills in geospatial data collection and analysis, as demonstrated by leading a team of 70 mappers.

Certifications

GIS Specialization

University of California (Coursera)

GIS Mapping and Spatial Analysis Specialization

University of Toronto (Coursera)

Esri MOOC – Cartography, Spatial Analysis

Esri

Get In Touch

Email

benardokellotieno@gmail.com

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