By:
Kanto Kai Okanta
Konza
Technopolis Development Authority Chief Executive Officer John Paul Okwiri has
highlighted the role of deliberate planning, intelligent infrastructure,
environmental sustainability and strategic partnerships in shaping sustainable
and inclusive cities in Africa.
Okwiri
delivered the message at the second edition of the Smart Cities Forum, held
under the theme “Regenerating Our Cities: From Urban Challenges to Smart,
Sustainable and Inclusive Futures.”
Highlighting
progress at Konza Technopolis, Kenya’s flagship smart city, Okwiri said the
development demonstrates how technology and innovation can improve lives and
create economic opportunities.
With
Phase One infrastructure complete, Konza Technopolis is demonstrating this
vision through the Konza National Data Centre, Integrated Operations Centre,
smart poles, automated waste collection and water reclamation systems,
alongside green infrastructure designed to support a resilient and sustainable
urban environment.
Beyond
infrastructure development, the Technopolis is building an innovation ecosystem
that brings together academia, industry, government and investors. Three
universities are already on site, supporting efforts to advance research,
entrepreneurship, digital skills development and job creation.
Okwiri
emphasised that the future of Africa’s cities depends not only on smarter
infrastructure but also on creating sustainable and inclusive environments
where technology serves people, sustainability guides development and
collaboration remains central to building the cities of tomorrow.
