WEBINAR: Smart technologies for equitable city economies

A discussion on how the application of new smart technologies in cities have fostered a more productive and inclusive environment for the urban poor.

Date: Monday 30^th March 2020

Time: 3 PM CET

Webinar Link:  https://zoom.us/j/782414995

Watch the recorded event here:

Speakers:

Keith Mudadi, Cities Alliance, Moderator

Laure Criqui, Espelia, Presenter

Blanche Varlet, Espelia, Presenter

Arne Janssen, Cities Alliance, Discussant

Wisvesh Bs, UNDP India, Discussant

For the last decade, there has been a real interest and enthusiasm for “smart city” initiatives, fostered by the deployment of Information and Communication Technologies. This trend has spurred projects all around the world based on technologies and data, that are often presented as fostering urban development. However, these technologies are not always context-sensitive and adapted to the needs of the Global South. Therefore, what are the real potential and impact of such new technologies in rapidly urbanising cities? To what extent the technology-related changes actually contribute to the inclusion of the urban poor? Are the conditions met to achieve these promises?

On behalf of Cities Alliance, the consulting firm Espelia has conducted a study that analyses the actual contributions of some new technologies to the inclusion of the urban poor. Based on two case studies in Bangalore (waste e-management) and Arusha (pay-as-you-go solar systems), it highlights the challenges in cities of the Global South, and the conditions, actions to be taken, and recommendations for multistakeholder arrangements that can contribute to urban inclusion.

About the Cities Alliance Joint Work Programme on Equitable Economic Growth in Cities

Cities Alliance is the global partnership for poverty reduction and promotion of the role of cities in sustainable development. The Joint Work Programme (JWP) for Equitable Economic Growth was set up to explore and address the link between improved provision of public goods and services, and more inclusive, equitable and sustainable city economies.