South Africa Has Launched The First Phase Of Smart City Development

On Thursday, March 27, South Africa launched the first phase of a smart city development in Shongweni, outside Durban. The development, which is called Westown, is expected to attract around R15 billion ($822 million) in private-sector investment over the next 10 to 15 years and produce over 23,000 jobs.

The initial phase is part of a wider project that includes, includes retail, housing, and healthcare facilities, according to Mybroadband.

Transforming the development trajectory of the region

Themba Masimula, senior project manager from the eThekwini Municipality’s Catalytic Projects Uni, told Mybroadband that plans for the smart city started 15 years ago. “We conceptualised this development to change the development trajectory of the West, from Durban to Pietermaritzburg,” he said.

He went on to say that many province residents spend most of their money on transport, which he links to a lack of development planning in KwaZulu-Natal. “The main concern is to ensure that, with this development, we bring about jobs, we bring about shopping and dining in one area,” he adds.

South Africa’s broader plan for building smart cities

This initiative is part of South Africa’s broader plan to create smart cities to merge advanced technologies and sustainable practices to enhance urban living.

In February, Microsoft announced its plans to train one million people in digital skills through an Artificial Intelligence skilling initiative in South Africa.  The initiative will give South Africans insight into the strategic aspects of AI whilst empowering leaders with the necessary tools and knowledge required to navigate the advancing AI landscape.

Image: Jason Bri