The smart poles, which are essentially outdoor distributed antenna systems, are being installed in densely populated areas of the city, including Old Taxi Park, Nakivubo Blue, and Namayuba Taxi Park.
Telecom infrastructure provider, ATC Uganda has today handed over 87 streetlights to Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) in fulfillment of the partnership in support of the KCCA Smart City Initiative.
In 2020, ATC Uganda joined with KCCA in their efforts to transform Kampala into a smart city by installing Smart Poles and Street lights. The innovative smart poles combine lighting with telecommunications infrastructure, boosting connectivity and safety across the city.
These smart poles, which are essentially outdoor distributed antenna systems, are being installed in densely populated areas of the city, including Old Taxi Park, Nakivubo Blue, and Namayuba Taxi Park. The initiative not only enhances telecommunication infrastructure but also integrates solar-powered street lighting, contributing to the city’s illumination and safety.
Dorothy Kabagambe Semanda, ATC Uganda Chief Executive Officer, says “We are happy to note that we have so far deployed 87 streetlights in total across different parts of the city with the recent addition of 18 on the busy Nkrumah Road and 30 along Nile Avenue.”
ATC Uganda has in the past previously deployed 33 streetlights along Kololo Hill Drive and 6 floodlights located on Kazo Angolla Road, 1 grid flood light along Naguru Go Down Road, 1 grid flood light in Mengo Market, 1 grid flood light at Naguru Kasenge Remand Home Road, 1 grid flood light at Makerere Kagugube, 1 grid flood light in Namuwongo along Green Hill Academy and 1 grid flood light along Kitante hill road.
“These have enhanced security in these areas by lighting up these populated areas hence averting crime. This partnership is a part of our commitment to providing vital telecom infrastructure that combines connectivity with street lighting,” Ssemanda said.
Ssemanda also added that the streetlights are solar-powered which underscores ATC Uganda’s dedication to sustainability and supports the global drive towards net-zero emissions.
Speaking during the launch of the Street lights at Nile Avenue, Dorothy Kisaka, KCCA Executive Director said, “The Smart City Initiative is more than just a blueprint; it is our strategic commitment to building an integrated, efficient, and sustainable urban environment here in Kampala. Leveraging technology is at the core of this initiative, aimed at improving the well-being of our citizens by enhancing the delivery of services.”
She said the city’s needs stand at approximately 40,000 streetlights, with only 6,000 active and about 75% functional. The magnitude of this gap is evident, and to bridge it, KCCA recognizes the importance of collaboration.
“While we’ve undertaken activities ourselves, the private sector’s involvement is crucial. This is where our private sector players like ATC, have played a significant role,” she said, adding, “ATC’s contribution to the deployment of smart poles and streetlights across various locations in the city has been instrumental. This partnership has not only opened up the night economy but also enhanced safety on our streets. The impact of this collaboration goes beyond the physical installations; it is about transforming the way our city operates and ensuring a brighter future for all.”
Hon Minsa Kabanda, the Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, expressed strong backing for the partnership. She said the integration of solar-powered streetlights with telecommunication infrastructure is a forward-thinking approach that aligns with government’s Vision for a modern, sustainable Kampala City.
“This partnership with ATC Uganda is a significant step in our journey to enhance the city’s infrastructure and provide our citizens with reliable services,” Hon Kabanda said.
The dual-function smart poles not only offer high-speed connectivity for mobile data and voice call services, but also provide eco-friendly, solar-powered street lighting.
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