Towards an ontology-based framework for data integration: Application to agriculture and health domains in senegal

Abstract

Computer-based systems have reached an advanced level in Africa during the past decade. In Senegal, the agriculture and health domain have led the way by initiating number of projects in ontology-based data integration. In this chapter, we are aiming at two main purposes. First, we present the state of the art in data integration in the agriculture and health domains in Senegal. We focus on the two latest projects: SIC-Senegal for agriculture and SIMENS (the National Medical Information System of Senegal) for the health. Second, we describe the methodological evolution of the ontology-based conceptual framework for data integration stemmed from the lessons learned along the two previous experiences. Finally, we will end this chapter by discussing the new challenges in ontology-based approach in supporting information system design in a larger scale such as climate change risk management. We also discuss the linked open data initiative in Senegal through the KOCC (Knowledge, Ontology, Community and Culture) project.