- Safaricom will deploy the system at the Kenya Water Institute’s Nairobi and Kitui campuses to facilitate practical training.
- The giant telco will additionally co-create and run a Smart Water Management curriculum for students at the institution.
- Smart Water Management entails leveraging IoT technologies to manage the abstraction, production, distribution, and consumption of water.
Safaricom partners with KEWI
Safaricom has partnered with the Kenya Water Institute (KEWI) to deploy Smart Water System in the water sector. Through the partnership, Safaricom will deploy the system at the KEWI’s Nairobi and Kitui campuses to facilitate practical training. The giant telco will additionally co-create and run a Smart Water Management curriculum for students at the institution.
“Safaricom remains committed to its vision of being a purpose-led technology company by 2025. As part of this journey, we partner with stakeholders to bring this vision to life. We recognise the importance of working with training institutions on relevant technology skills and onboarding the young generation in our Internet of Things (IoT) process as early as possible,” Safaricom Chief Executive Officer said Peter Ndegwa said.
Smart Water Management entails leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to manage the abstraction, production, distribution, and consumption of water.
The smart water meters provide an effective way of collecting data online in real-time. They ensure effective monitoring of utility consumption data. Consequently, they detect loss and leakage, ensuring accurate billing. This enhances revenue collection, improving operational efficiency and saving costs.
“We understand the place of IoT, and as such, we continue to embrace different technologies. IoT technology is central to creating the Smart Meter and making it work. It is at the heart of the new digital world, transforming business models and opening new products and services at a spectacular rate. Generated data can boost efficiency, cut costs, save utility, and help your consumers organise their lives better,” Ndegwa added.
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KEWI’s mandate
The government mandates the Kenya Water Institute to develop capacity for the water sector. The institute also provides short courses for water service providers. As such, KEWI is best placed to partner with Safaricom to tailor the Smart Water Management curriculum.
Kenya Water Institute Chief Executive Officer Leiro Letangule observes that the partnership between Safaricom and KEWI on the Smart Water Management curriculum is forward-thinking. The collaboration aims to tackle the pressing issue of water scarcity by fostering awareness and practical solutions. Moreover, it reflects a shared vision of leveraging technology and education to drive sustainable water practices and conservation.
The partnership aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6. SDG 6 seeks universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water to achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation for all.