Implications of Smart Cities on the Adjacent Land Uses: a Case of Konza City in Kenya

Abstract

The Smart City era has been ushered in by technological advancements of the 21st century, creating transformative landscapes that integrate technology, infrastructure, and urban planning to enhance the quality of life for residents and promote sustainable development. However, emerging smart cities have failed to integrate with the adjacent land uses, failing to meet the smart city principles. The study aims to investigate the implication of a smart city on the adjoining land uses. The specific objectives of this research are fourfold. First is to assess the effects of Konza City on the adjacent land uses; second is to determine the factors that have contributed to the interrelationship between Konza City and the adjoining land uses; third is to evaluate stakeholder roles, perceptions, and behavior; and fourth is to propose strategies that can be employed to ensure sustainable smart cities and the adjacent land uses. The study focused on the area around Konza City within Konza and Muumandu Sub-locations. The study employed a multi-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Quantitative data was collected using a structured questionnaire from 92 households within the study area. Qualitative data was collected through interviews with four key informants, observation, and three focus group discussions with traders and business operators in Malili town. Secondary data was collected from the review of published materials, government reports, and print media. The data was analyzed using SPSS and GIS software (ArcGIS and ArcView). Data collected was presented graphically using tables, bar charts, histograms, pie charts, graphs, spatial maps, and 2D design models. The findings demonstrated that Konza City has significantly influenced the adjacent land use patterns, economic activities, and social dynamics. Konza city has shifted towards more urban and commercial activities. However, challenges such as rising land prices, gentrification, and increased pressure on infrastructure and services have been experienced. These findings highlighted the need for a comprehensive and inclusive approach to smart city planning and development. From the study, it can be concluded that Smart Cities have significant implications on the adjacent land uses, changing the area's character. The area surrounding Konza City has undergone a dynamic shift in land use, from primarily agricultural to commercial and residential, signifying the region's potential for urban growth. The study recommends an integrated spatial planning model that ensures controlled urban development, enhanced accessibility and connectivity with interlinked nodes, improved access to services and facilities, sustainable environmental conservation, and reduced infrastructure strain by promoting other nodes to secondary and tertiary status. This study further recommends a structure plan and zoning guidelines to manage the effects and demands of the adjacent land uses arising from the city.