INTERNET OF THINGS
Sizing up the opportunity of IoT in South Africa
“ The Internet of Things( IoT) opens up numerous opportunities for solving the resource allocation and utilisation issues that cities face as a result of rapid urbanisation,” says Reshaad Sha, CEO of SqwidNet. He further explains how South Africa should take advantage.
I n a country like South Africa, where cities face increasing demands to support the needs of their citizens and businesses while under budget, facility, and service constraints, IoT innovations offer ways to use these resources in a much more efficient and productive manner.
Reshaad Sha Chief Executive Officer
SqwidNet
SIGFOX partners have already developed devices and applications to deliver smart-energy, smart-water, and environmental-monitoring solutions that can be deployed on the SqwidNet network in South Africa. These solutions will enable cities to manage the distribution and utilisation of these resources more efficiently. In some cases, such as smart energy, new business models can enable the renewable energy that is produced by businesses and citizens to be harvested and brought back onto the grid to supplement the energy supply that is available to cities. IoT is ultimately paving the way for real-time, contextual, and relevant services that unlock value for citizens and businesses.
IoT, and the availability of cost-efficient IoT connectivity, also provides a real opportunity for businesses to become more cost efficient and productive – increasing their competitiveness. In verticals such as logistiscs and supply chain, IoT applications help to reduce risks, improve operational efficiency, and raise service levels. The increased sustainability of these businesses boost their economic and broader social contributions to cities. IoT applications and devices that are currently available in the SIGFOX partner ecosystem can also be used to provide pervasive and contextual public safety and security services, making it safer to live and do business in cities.
“ The Internet of Things( IoT) opens up numerous opportunities for solving the resource allocation and utilisation issues that cities face as a result of rapid urbanisation.”
business users and consumers, as well as the service providers and system integrators that will deliver these services to end users.
SIGFOX, a global IoT network, has established an ecosystem consisting of low-cost devices with long battery life, low connectivity costs, and long-distance transmission capabilities. It is expanding its coverage to South Africa via SqwidNet, a wholly-owned subsidiary of DFA, the premier open-access fibre network provider. SqwidNet will deploy and operate the SIGFOX network nationwide and distribute the IoT connectivity services and solutions through its partner channels. Full national coverage will be available in 2018.
“ South Africa will need to shape its future cities as hubs of culture and commerce that promote high-quality, streamlined living. And to get this right they need to evolve to become smart cities enabled through the IoT,” Sha concludes. ■
Investment in IoT will drive innovation at the application and service layers. Entrepreneurs and larger players will have the opportunity to create compelling propositions that benefit
Contact SqwidNet www. sqwidnet. com
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