Konza will be a smart city, with an integrated urban information and communication technology (ICT) network that supports delivery of connected urban services and allows for efficient management of those services on a large scale. Specifically, a smart city framework will integrate the following four key city services:
- Infrastructure services (transportation, utilities, public safety, environment)
- Citizen services (access and participation)
- City services (city information, planning and development)
- Business services (supportive services for local commerce)
As a smart city, Konza will gather data from smart devices and sensors embedded in the urban environment, such as roadways, buildings, and other assets. Collected data will be shared via a smart communications system and be analyzed by software that delivers valuable information and digitally enhanced services to Konza’s population.
For example, roadway sensors will be able to monitor pedestrian and automobile traffic, and adjust traffic light timing accordingly to optimize traffic flows. Konza’s population will also have direct access to collected data, which may include traffic maps, emergency warnings, and detailed information describing energy and water consumption. The availability of data will enable Konza’s population to participate directly in the operations of the city, practice more sustainable living patterns, and enhance overall inclusiveness.
By leveraging the smart city framework, Konza will be able to optimize its city services, creating a sustainable city that responds directly to the needs of its residents, workers, and visitors.
The implementation of a smart city framework at Konza has begun with detailed planning relating to ICT infrastructure. As Konza continues to develop its technology network, it will draw from a range of international best practices, including the Intelligent Community Forum, Smart Cities Council, and International Standards Organization’s methodologies for the sustainable development of communities.
Konza will learn from global cities that have successfully incorporated smart city frameworks, including Santander, Spain; Barcelona, Spain; Singapore; Amsterdam, The Netherlands; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Konza Techno City Master Plan Overview
Konza was planned as a mixed-use, high density walkable city that accommodates a diversity of programs and districts. By avoiding superblocks and auto-orientated roadways, Konza will be a livable, sustainable urban environment that encourages high-value development and discourages sprawl.
Planning will take cues from successful global urban centers, yet be specific to the needs of Kenya and the region.
The master plan sets the framework for a city that functions both globally and locally, today and in the future. These concepts of livability, density, and walkability have been incorporated in the Local Physical Development Plan approved by the Ministry of Lands on February 2013.
The master plan follows a “stitch” framework, composed of a mixed use “bar” that runs east- west off Mombasa Highway and is intersected by a series of program “bands” that run north- south. These bands include a university, residential, science and tech, and an office band.
The intersection of the bars and the bands create vivid connections, where special programs and higher density occur.
These intersections become points of interest that seed neighborhoods of distinct character. The stitch master plan also contains a series of neighborhood parks, located throughout the city with varied orientations. Most parks are connected to the green boulevard, a 60 meter parkscape and public transit corridor.
The development of the Konza master plan will be monitored by the Konza Technopolis Development Authority. The authority has entered into a 99-year lease with the Central Government of Kenya and will have the authority to sublease parcels to developers, finance the build-out of the public infrastructure, and package incentives to attract investors and tenants.
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