Big Data’s Use In Development Of Smart Cities

The impact of Big Data and cutting-edge technologies in fast-tracking the development of smarter, more sustainable, and human-centric cities, has been transformative.

Speaking at the 41^st International Association of Science Parts and areas of innovation (IASP) World Confrence 2024 held in Nairobi, Steve Kamuya, the Executive Director at Huawei Kenya, highlighted the transformative potential of data-driven solutions in urban development.

Kamuya stressed the importance of a human-centric approach to city planning, adding that technology should be used to enhance the quality of life for all residents, making cities more livable, inclusive, and sustainable.

“By leveraging data, we can better understand the needs of diverse populations and address challenges such as traffic congestion, pollution, and resource management. As urban populations grow, data and technology will play an even greater role in ensuring cities remain sustainable, resilient, and adaptable to future needs,” he said.

He further noted that technologies such as 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud Computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) were already being integrated to fast-track development of smarter cities like Konza Technopolis and at the same time were being used to optimize critical city operations like transportation, energy management, and public safety, globally.

“Overall, smart cities rely on a combination of cloud computing, robust networking, edge computing, and date aggregation to optimize urban operations. These technologies not only increase efficiency but also reduce environmental impact, a key pillar in creating sustainable urban environments. Huawei’s vision aligns with the broader goals of smart cities worldwide – creating cities that are not just technologically advanced but also prioritize the well-being and inclusivity of their inhabitants,” he added.

On his part, Huawei Kenya’s Director for Government Affairs and Policy, Adam Lane, provided a focus talk presentation to kick-off the session on Transformative Models in Sustainable Development. He focused on the large opportunities available from even simple interventions such as using microphones in forests to detect deforestation as well as making advanced AI solutions easier for communities to develop through Huawei Cloud’s Pangu Models, many of which are already pre-trained and easily applicable to different industry uses.

Lane provided further details on how Integrated Operations Centers can transform coordination, management, and governance through integrating data from multiple sources and thus improving public service delivery, efficiency and sustainability. Huawei’s exhibition stand at the conference provided opportunities for participants to interact with these tools and solutions and discuss with Huawei experts.

The IASP World Conference 2024, which is being hosted by Konza Technopolis on behalf of the Kenya Government, has brought together global leaders, innovators, and stakeholders in the science park and innovation district sectors from more than 50 countries, to explore how demographics, entrepreneurship, and technology are shaping future global economies.

The conference is also featuring discussions on how innovation hubs like Konza Technopolis are pioneering digital transformation in Africa, offering a glimpse into the future of urban development.