Spotlighting the people shaping Dev-Afrique’s work across Africa
Dev-Afrique works across sectors, countries, and institutions—but at the center of it all are the people who deliver. Profiles in Practice is a new series that highlights team members driving our work on the ground and behind the scenes, bringing technical depth, local insight, and execution to complex development challenges.
We begin with Saheed Saliu, Senior Consultant and GIS Specialist, whose work in geospatial systems reflects the kind of grounded, African-led impact that defines Dev-Afrique’s approach.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Saheed Saliu. I studied Urban and Regional Planning and hold a Master’s in GIS from the University of Lagos. My areas of specialization include GIS, urban planning, remote sensing, cartography, and AI/ML. I joined Dev-Afrique in 2020 on a project basis and became a full-time staff member in 2022.
What drew you to development advisory work?
At first, I saw it as a way to provide technical support by analyzing data and offering solutions. As I got deeper into the work, I realized it aligned with my passion for making real impact in communities.
Why Dev-Afrique, and how has the experience shaped you?
I was drawn to the meaningful work Dev-Afrique is doing. Since joining, I have grown technically, especially in remote sensing and machine learning, and I’ve started thinking more broadly about impact beyond local contexts. It has made me more aware of how powerful technology can be in solving real problems across the continent.
Tell us about a project that left a mark on you.
The Guinea Worm Eradication Program with The Carter Center stands out. I led the remote sensing and geospatial mapping from Nigeria, helping detect hidden water bodies in Ethiopia that could spread the disease. Our tools enabled frontline health workers to respond more quickly, and the work expanded into South Sudan and Chad. Seeing how data could help save lives was a turning point for me.
What skills have you sharpened since joining the team?
I have deepened my expertise in remote sensing and cartography and started applying AI and machine learning to spatial data analysis. These tools have transformed how I approach problems and made my contributions more meaningful.
Is there a part of your role people might not realize is essential?
Geospatial support is embedded in almost every project we work on. It is not hidden, but it often operates behind the scenes; connecting data, strategy, and impact.
What sets Dev-Afrique apart in its approach to development advisory?
The collaborative, flat structure. Everyone’s voice matters, and this creates room for innovation and ownership.
Describe the team spirit in one word.
Fantastic. There is real collaboration, shared responsibility, and a strong drive to succeed together.
What’s something your teammates might not know about you?
I am a big cat lover. I’m not a fan of dogs, no matter how cute they are.
How has Dev-Afrique changed your view on Africa’s development?
It has reinforced my belief that Africa’s progress depends on African-led solutions. External support has its place, but real development happens when we take the lead. I am more focused now on adapting global best practices to local realities, knowing each effort builds toward lasting change.
Can you share a moment with a community or stakeholder that made you proud of Dev-Afrique’s impact?
Our current work supporting polio eradication in Nigeria is one example. It is a competitive space, but we have built trust by being collaborative and adding value without displacing others. Going from an outsider to a trusted partner is something I am proud of.
What makes you proud to be part of Dev-Afrique?
I am #DAProud because we are redefining social impact in Africa, through African expertise, innovative solutions, and an unwavering commitment to sustainable development.
Saheed’s journey reflects the values at the heart of Dev-Afrique; technical excellence, meaningful impact, and a deep commitment to African-led solutions. As we continue the Profiles in Practice series, we look forward to sharing more stories of the people driving change from within.
