Earth observation (EO)-based ex post assessment of internally displaced person (IDP) camp evolution and population dynamics in Zam Zam, Darfur

During humanitarian crises, when population figures are often urgently required but very difficult to obtain, remote sensing is able to provide evidence of both present and past population numbers. This research, conducted on QuickBird time-series imagery of the Zam Zam internally displaced person (IDP) camp in Northern Darfur, investigates automated analysis of the camp's evolution between 2002 and 2008, including delineation of the camp's outlines and inner structure, employment of rule-based extraction for two categories of dwelling units and derivation of population estimates for the time of image capture. Reference figures for dwelling occupancy were obtained from estimates made by aid agencies. Although validation of such 'on-demand' census techniques is still continuing, the benefits of a fast, efficient and objective information source are obvious. Spatial, as well thematic, accuracy was, in this instance, assessed against visual interpretation of eight 200m x 200m grid cells and accuracy statistics calculated. Total user's and producer's accuracy rates ranged from 71.6% up to 94.9%. While achieving promising results with respect to accuracy, transferability and usability, the remaining limitations of automated population estimation in dynamic crisis situations will provide a stimulus for future research.