International cooperation in cartography: the inter African CCTA/CSA Committee for the compilation of maps

Abstract

As long ago as 1949, the Johannesburg African Scientific conference turned its attention, to examining to what extent it might be possible to, harmonise or standardize certain cartographic data (ellipsoid, the system of projection to be adopted, the definition of adopted, the definition of sheet lines, scales, conventional signs, and transcription of toponymy). At its request, an inventory of the types of maps existing in Africa was compiled, and then revised, added to and amended, following a meeting of specialists in cartography and topographical surveys held at Bukavu in September 1953. This important meeting, which brought together the vast majority of the representatives of those nations that were, at the time, responsible for cartographic policy in Africa south of the Sahara.