A Collaborative Triumph: EagleCORS and ComNav's Shared Journey to Success

In 2015, David Mulindwa, a distinguished Ugandan Professional Surveyor, embarked on a journey to the Far East, arriving in the vibrant city of Shanghai China. Driven by a desire to explore advanced GNSS technologies, he sought to establish contact with ComNav Technology Ltd. (ComNav), then a burgeoning enterprise located in the Minhang district of Shanghai.

David's interest in ComNav products was cautious at first, stemming from past challenges in finding a reliable GNSS supplier. He had even been scammed online. However, after thorough research and reassuring conversations, he decided to visit ComNav in person during a chilly December in 2015.

On this maiden trip to China, David spent a week with the ComNav team, delving into the intricacies of SinoGNSS's technology. His visit allowed him to tour the company's facilities and meet key figures, including Dr. Wang. As one of ComNav's first African clients, David's visit underscored our commitment to fostering trust and building relationships based on quality and mutual respect.

By the end of his visit, David was convinced of the excellence of our products and placed his first order of GNSS receivers. Our technical staff provided him with comprehensive training, ensuring he could operate the equipment with confidence, supported by our 24/7 customer service. Upon returning to Uganda, David's success with the GNSS units sparked interest among his peers, leading to widespread adoption of SinoGNSS products in his region.

David Mulindwa, 2015, Shanghai

Before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, David frequently traveled to China, each time returning with the latest SinoGNSS surveying products and technology. Through these visits, he not only gained advanced skills in troubleshooting and fully exploring the equipment's capabilities but also became deeply connected with our team. His visits often concluded with tours of China's historical and picturesque cities, further strengthening the bond between us.

Thanks to this close collaboration, SinoGNSS rapidly rose to become one of the top GNSS brands in Uganda. Meanwhile, ComNav entered a new chapter, moving to the expansive Compass Hi-Tech Industrial Park in Jiading district, Shanghai.

When ComNav developed an advanced CORS GNSS solution, we knew it was vital to introduce this cutting-edge technology to Uganda. CORS (Continuously Operating Reference Stations) are networks of permanently installed GNSS receivers and antennas that provide stable, high-accuracy RTK correction data to users within a specific geographical area. This technology eliminates the need for surveyors to set up individual base stations, significantly easing their workload.

The transformation of Uganda's land sector and the development of the Land Information System heightened the need for a modern geodetic network. In early 2016, David and our technical team conducted tests on a pilot project to establish a CORS network in Kampala. Later that year, the network expanded nationwide, serving surveyors and various other sectors in Uganda. Seizing this opportunity, David envisioned and brought to life EagleCORS, a comprehensive CORS network covering the entire country.

CORS station photos built by David

“We started our own CORS service due to the high demand for a quality, client-centric solution. Previous single CORS services often fell short of client expectations,” David recalls. “We laid out a strategic plan to establish a fully functioning CORS service, supported by our partners who provided technical expertise and equipment, enabling us to deliver an international-standard service.”

With robust execution and unwavering technical support, EagleCORS launched its EDAS (EagleCORS Data Access Service) in late 2017. By the end of 2018, the service was operational across major cities and towns in Uganda. By 2021, EDAS had expanded to cover approximately 80% of the country. To manage the commercial aspect of the system, the EagleCORS team developed their own online payment systems and employed CDC.NET software for user management and data control.

Under David's dynamic leadership, EagleCORS has emerged as a leading CORS network service provider in East and Central Africa, boasting an impressive network of 35 stations. The project's success extends beyond national borders, with strategic partnerships established in Kenya, DR Congo, and Cameroon.

EagleCORS Today

As the founder and CEO of EagleCORS, David has transformed from a registered land surveyor to the visionary behind a privately-run national CORS network. The establishment of this network not only filled a critical infrastructure gap but also bolstered his sales of GNSS receivers and created new revenue streams through CORS services.

EagleCORS held seminar for SinoGNSS products promotion

EagleCORS trained university students

The success of EagleCORS has also elevated ComNav on the international stage, becoming one of our landmark projects and a classic user case for the BDS Highlight Project. EagleCORS's success has served as a model for similar projects in other countries, demonstrating the transformative potential of well-implemented CORS networks.

BeiDou Navigation Satellite System Application User Case (Dec. 2018)

The establishment of EagleCORS has significantly enhanced David's standing in Uganda's geospatial information sector. In 2018, he was elected Chairperson of the Land Surveying Chapter of the Institution of Surveyors of Uganda. In this role, he played a pivotal part in aligning RICS APC training with local standards, imparting crucial GNSS knowledge, and elevating the surveying profession within the broader community.

David as Chairperson for Land Surveyors in Uganda

David also represents Uganda in the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG) and currently serves as Vice Chair of Working Group 5.6 within Commission 5 of FIG.

David Mulindwa, country(Uganda) representative at the FIG

David with SinoGNSS Mars Laser RTK at FIG 2023 in Orlando, USA

David at FIG 2024 in Accra, Ghana

His growing visibility in Africa has significantly contributed to winning more government project bids. On the international stage, David's leadership and influence continue to reinforce ComNav's reputation, benefiting our business development and brand exposure.

Following ComNav's successful IPO, our motto, “Innovation Makes the Difference,” has driven us to continually develop and enrich our product portfolio. David has been instrumental in testing our new solutions, such as the agricultural autosteering system, A300 monitoring solution, M10 mini GNSS receiver for personnel positioning, and LS300 3D laser scanner. His feedback has been invaluable in refining these products to better meet user needs.

David has also consistently served as an advisor for ComNav. Whether addressing technical questions from other African clients or reassuring new partners during the initial stages of cooperation, David's guidance has been crucial in building strong, reliable partnerships.

David Mulindwa with Dr. Wang Yongquan, Chairman of ComNav Technology

The relationship between EagleCORS and ComNav is one of shared vision and mutual growth. Together, we have supported and empowered each other, working hand in hand towards a prosperous future. This partnership is a shining example of how collaboration and the fusion of local expertise with advanced technology can drive innovation and success in the geospatial sector. Together, we are forging a path to a brighter, more connected world.