By Yoga David
Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o with the President of the World Smart Cities Association, Mr. Peter Chun at ASCA Summit / Images by Calvin Randy
Kisumu has once again been placed at the heart of Africa urban transformation by hosting the inaugural Africa Smart Cities and Townships Alliance (ASCA) Summit at the Grand Royal Swiss Hotel.
Speaking during the official opening, Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang Nyong’o emphasized that the future of Africa’s development lies in empowering local governments and communities.
“The future of Africa’s development is local. The future of our economic Renaissance is local. The future of our independence and growth is local” said the Governor.
Governor Nyong’o also pointed out on the role of county assemblies, municipalities and intermediary Cities in shaping the continents future.
The Governor noted that Africa’s rapid urbanization is projected to see 60% of its population living in cities by 2050, presents both challenges and opportunities.
He highlighted Kisumu’s pioneering role, having hosted the 9th AfriCities Summit in 2022 as the first intermediary city, a milestone that accelerated infrastructure development; foster partnership and strengthen the city’s vision of becoming smart, inclusive and sustainable.
The Governor praised ASCA for extending its focus beyond major cities to include townships, informal settlements and secondary cities, recognizing them as vital spaces for innovation and resilience.
He pointed out that smart City solutions in Africa must be inclusive, people centered and locally driven, citing opportunities in digital infrastructure, innovation hubs, community led energy solutions and public-private partnership.
Deputy Governor Dr Matthew echoed this vision painting a picture of Kisumu that fully embraces its lakeside identity, modern transport system and green urban spaces.
“We are looking forward to a Kisumu that is facing the lake not turning her back to the lake. A Kisumu with mass urban transport, seamlessly connected road, rail, maritime and air travel and green spaces that define every modern setting” Dr Owili said.
DG Owili added that the summit would be vital learning forum, enabling Kisumu to draw lessons from global experiences while strengthening sister city engagements.
He urged the delegates to use their time in Kisumu to exchange ideas that will help build better cities and better world.
Prof. Nyong’o called for a stronger partnership between ASCA and the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLGA), saying such collaboration would amplify advocacy, scale up best practices and attract greater resources for Africa’s cities and townships.
Some of the prominent leaders who graced the event included the President of the World Smart Cities Association, Mr. Peter Chun, the Burundi Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Evelyne Habonimana, and Princess Katerina de Silva from the United Kingdom.
They were joined by municipal leaders from across the region, distinguished delegates, and other honorable guests, who exchange ideas on building resilient, inclusive and digitally enabled African cities.