As part of its commitment to digitalising critical enterprise sectors, Vodacom Business is collaborating with local governments to provide technology solutions that aim to make South African cities smarter. The partnership, which is part of a five-year Transversal Contract with the National Treasury, highlights the significant role digital solutions play in enabling municipalities to deliver services more efficiently and build an inclusive future.
“We have a proven track record in partnering with the public sector to deliver transformative digital solutions. We aim to use our experience and expertise in understanding government needs to achieve their smart city goals. This includes digitalising utilities management, healthcare, education, and security, which streamline operations, enhance efficiencies, and improve the lives of citizens,” says Videsha Proothveerajh, Director of Vodacom Business.
Vodacom Business offers a smart utilities management system that uses connected smart meters to provide real-time information on water and electricity consumption, which can improve billing accuracy and revenue collection. This system also includes fleet management, helping municipalities reduce costs and enhance the lifespan, value, and efficiency of their assets.
The Citizen Engagement app, developed by Vodacom Business, enables two-way communication and collaboration between citizens and municipalities, including logging service requests and tracking their progress.
In healthcare, Vodacom Business leverages technology to improve access and efficiency. The secure, cloud-based Stock Visibility Solution (SVS) helps healthcare facilities monitor stock levels and improve medication-dispensing responses. The AitaHealth platform supports Community Health Workers in delivering preventative care services to communities. The Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system tracks ambulance requests from the initial call to patient delivery, enhancing emergency response efficiency.
In education, Vodacom Business has developed digital solutions to support departments and schools with streamlined e-admissions and better communication between schools, district management, and provincial offices. Vodacom’s e-learning initiatives use mobile technology to improve the learning experience, supporting the government’s goal to enhance educational outcomes in South Africa.
To ensure citizen safety, Vodacom Business has developed various IoT security solutions, such as real-time firearm tracking and geo-fencing, as well as body-worn cameras that provide live video transmission during critical situations, aiding in incident management and evidence collection.
“As Vodacom celebrates its 30th anniversary, Vodacom Business remains committed to transforming enterprises of every size to change lives and ensure that no one is left behind in the digital future. By enabling the growth of smart cities, we are turning public services into public successes and supporting the government to utilise the power of technology to better serve citizens and create an inclusive digital society in South Africa,” concludes Proothveerajh.
