This archive report was first published on 4 November 2019.
Published on November 4, 2019, a study by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) revealed that traffic gridlock in Kenya accounts for billions of shillings in losses annually, both in time and human capital.
Despite billions of shillings spent on expanding transport infrastructure, traffic congestion remains a significant challenge. It not only affects a country's economic competitiveness and attractiveness to investors but also results in a decline in the overall GDP and an increase in air pollution, leading to ill health among residents.
Nairobi, ranked as one of the most congested cities globally, has seen an increase in urbanization and motorization. To address this issue, Huawei partnered with the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) to implement the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS).
The ITS uses intelligent surveillance cameras, traffic flow cameras, variable timing traffic lights, and a control center to monitor and manage traffic. The system collects data to change traffic light timings, ensuring efficient flow of traffic, while surveillance cameras enable monitoring of traffic violations and rapid response in case of accidents.
So far, the system has been implemented in 7 major junctions, including Yaya Center, Kilimani, and Kileleshwa Ring Roads, with plans to expand to other junctions across the city in the future.
Managing traffic has been a challenge, and it continues to be a pressing issue. While constructing new roads, bridges, and underpasses is expensive and time-consuming, taking a unified approach to traffic management and leveraging advanced technologies and intelligent solutions can improve traffic flow and safety.
