Konza Technopolis Unveils First Automatic Waste Collection System

Technopolis has set a new benchmark for smart urban development by launching Africa's first automatic waste collection system. This Sh1.165 billion project is a flagship component of the Vision 2030 initiative, solidifying Konza's position among the world's leading smart cities.

Revolutionizing Urban Waste Management

"The Konza Technopolis automatic solid waste collection system is the first of its kind in Africa," said Alice Obota, an electrical engineer involved in the project’s installation and commissioning.

Unlike traditional truck-based garbage collection, the new system can collect up to 40 tonnes of waste daily within an hour, utilizing advanced pneumatic pressure technology. Developed by Spanish company Envac, the system features 100 strategically placed waste inlets near residential and commercial areas.

These modern disposal units, organized in sets of four, replace conventional garbage bins and connect to a 14.8-kilometer underground pipeline network. This network channels waste to a central terminal located in the heart of the 5,000-acre technopolis, which spans Kajiado, Machakos, and Makueni counties.

How the System Works

Users sort their waste into four categories—plastics, paper, mixed waste, and organic material—and deposit them into designated inlets. Once a bin reaches capacity, sensors activate an automatic suction mechanism that propels the waste through pipelines at speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour.

"The entire system is airtight to prevent odours and pests from accessing the waste," Obota explained. "At the central terminal, industrial filters clean the air used for waste transport before it’s released into the atmosphere. Each waste stream is compacted separately to minimize space requirements before being stored for recycling."

Environmental and Social Impact

Konza's automated system addresses the waste management challenges faced by other urban centers in the region. Nairobi, for instance, generates over 3,000 tonnes of solid waste daily, often resulting in overflowing bins and unsightly garbage heaps.

"Traditional truck-based collection emits significant carbon into the atmosphere. Our automatic system cuts carbon emissions by 89 tonnes annually while enhancing urban sanitation," Obota added.

Comprehensive Sustainability Initiatives

According to Anne Musyimi, Konza’s manager for physical planning, compliance, and environment, the waste collection system is part of a broader sustainability strategy. Other eco-friendly initiatives at Konza include:

• A 30-acre solar farm to power city operations.

• Water recycling systems for greening projects.

• North-South building orientation for optimal environmental performance.

• A tree nursery capable of producing 10 million seedlings.

"We prioritize environmental sustainability at Konza Technopolis," Musyimi noted. "Treated wastewater, meeting WHO drinking water standards, irrigates tree-lined roads, achieving 70% canopy coverage and encouraging walking over driving."

Future Developments: Waste-to-Energy Plant

Looking ahead, Konza plans to establish a waste-to-energy plant to further enhance its sustainability.

"We aim to power the city entirely with renewable energy, leveraging our planned waste-to-energy plant, solar farm, and potential wind projects," Musyimi said.

The project has earned high praise from government officials. During a recent visit, Dr. David Ndii, chair of the presidential economic advisory team, described Konza as a model for sustainable urban development.