Application of photo-interpretation to regional development projects in tropical Africa : Regional survey methodology

Abstract

This document presents a comprehensive analysis of regional development projects in Tropical Africa, focusing on the application of photo-interpretation techniques to enhance cartographic methodologies. It highlights the challenges faced by conventional survey methods, which often prioritize economic data collection at the expense of geographical and sociological insights. The paper emphasizes the need for integrated studies that consider the diverse concerns of geologists, hydrologists, economists, and sociologists. The document also discusses the importance of sample surveys in collecting statistical data, while acknowledging the inherent difficulties in achieving representative samples in scattered populations. The findings underscore the necessity of combining photo-interpretation with ground surveys to obtain reliable data for regional planning and development initiatives.