Spearheading technological innovations is the key to solving critical urban area challenges, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has said.
Sakaja said such innovations are key in solving challenges facing urban areas including solid waste management, water conservation, and government project oversight.
"I challenge you to create tech-driven solutions for solid waste management," Sakaja said.
"Nairobi collects over 2,300 tonnes of solid waste daily—how can we use technology to manage this efficiently and repurpose the waste?"
Sakaja made the appeal during the opening of the Nairobi Innovation Week at the University of Nairobi.
The event drew both local and international participants.
Governor Sakaja underscored the importance of leveraging technology to address the city's pressing issues.
He at the same time reaffirmed his administration's commitment to embracing digital solutions to enhance government operations and improve service delivery.
Additionally, addressed the "Dishi na County" initiative, a program designed to feed over 310,000 schoolchildren in Nairobi using technology such as tap-to-eat watches, to monitor meal distribution.
Sakaja proposed extending this model to higher education institutions with a "Dishi na Campo" initiative to ensure that university students also benefit from such innovations.
"Technology has allowed us to ensure our pupils are well-fed. We can collaborate with universities to expand this initiative to campus students," Sakaja remarked.
With the Murang'a Northern Tunnel Water Project nearing completion, Sakaja said there is a need to develop systems to monitor and reduce water wastage.
He pledged his administration's support for any innovations that could address the city's water management issues.
"A significant amount of water is wasted in Nairobi. We need technology that can help us track and conserve water," he emphasized.
