Premium
African cities embrace digital future
Panelists during a session at the Smart Cities Forum in Nairobi, on October 30, 2025.
What you need to know:
- NMG Chief Executive Officer Geoffrey Odundo highlighted the media’s role in advancing Kenya’s smart city agenda.
- County governments also reaffirmed their commitment to the national smart governance vision.
Africa’s cities are expanding faster than ever, with the continent’s urban population projected to double from 700 million to 1.4 billion by 2050, according to UN-Habitat.
Experts say this growth will make Africa the world’s second most urbanised region — posing immense pressure on housing, transport, and infrastructure, but also offering vast potential for innovation and economic transformation.
These insights emerged at the Smart Cities Forum 2025 in Nairobi, where policymakers, innovators, and development partners explored how technology and data can drive sustainable, people-centred urban spaces.
City Planners Association chairperson Eng Maruira Omwenga said Africa’s youthful population presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
“Our cities can be engines of economic growth if we harness data, technology, and innovation to make them sustainable,” she said.
Representing the National Treasury, Director of Public Procurement Eric Korir, emphasised that effective governance and accountability underpin smart cities.
UN-Habitat Digital Rights and Inclusion Officer, Roberta Maio deliver her presentation at the Smart Cities Forum at Two Rivers Mall, Nairobi, on October 30, 2025.
He cited the Electronic Government Procurement (EGP) system as a key reform that has digitised procurement from planning to contract management, reducing paperwork and promoting transparency.
“The EGP ensures every shilling is traceable and delivers value,” he said.
Nation Media Group (NMG) Chief Executive Officer Geoffrey Odundo highlighted the media’s role in advancing Kenya’s smart city agenda.
“Our purpose is not just to inform but to influence society positively and drive conversations that define our continent’s progress,” he said.
Housing and Urban Development Principal Secretary Charles Hinga (left) with Nation Media Group Managing Director and CEO Geoffrey Odundo during the Smart Cities Forum at Two Rivers Mall, Nairobi, on October 30, 2025.
He added that NMG’s transition to a digitally driven, sustainability-conscious organisation mirrors the transformation cities must undertake.
County governments also reaffirmed their commitment to the national smart governance vision.
Kiambu CEC for Lands Susan Gatwiri and Nairobi acting County Secretary Godfrey Akumali cited ongoing efforts to digitise services, promote clean energy, and modernise waste management.
Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga linked the housing agenda to the smart city vision, noting that infrastructure development must integrate modern road networks, digital connectivity, and efficient services.
