Another great post. I actually believe the opposite about South Africa. Being the most unequal society actually presents the opportunity for Smart Cities. Looking at the two examples you have mentioned Steyn City and Waterfall City both were projects driven by the private sector. I dont know the exact details around their construction but I believe South Africa is becoming more and more of an enclave society, maybe the first we have seen in modern times. As the economic struggles in the country continue some will emigrate and others will stay, building sophisticated cities which will optimize technology and integration of physical assets. Steyn City and Waterfall are the first versions of these enclaves amongst many others recently built.
Thanks, Achuma. I agree. What's happening with the elite population is that central suburbs are becoming more 'congested' so they are moving themselves & their companies outside of Sandton & the likes. The appeal of a new city like Waterfall makes it compelling (more space, lifestyle remains high at the same cost). But Waterfall remains an 'open city'. On the other side, Steyn City I can concur is an enclave that wishes it divorces itself from reality.
South Africa remains an elitist country just with the demographics of the elitists changing. The private sector will continue to cater for two South Africas by building these enclaves and those who are more fortunate will continue to inhabit them. The vast number of private estates in the country is an indication we are heading in that direction.
Another great post. I actually believe the opposite about South Africa. Being the most unequal society actually presents the opportunity for Smart Cities. Looking at the two examples you have mentioned Steyn City and Waterfall City both were projects driven by the private sector. I dont know the exact details around their construction but I believe South Africa is becoming more and more of an enclave society, maybe the first we have seen in modern times. As the economic struggles in the country continue some will emigrate and others will stay, building sophisticated cities which will optimize technology and integration of physical assets. Steyn City and Waterfall are the first versions of these enclaves amongst many others recently built.
Thanks, Achuma. I agree. What's happening with the elite population is that central suburbs are becoming more 'congested' so they are moving themselves & their companies outside of Sandton & the likes. The appeal of a new city like Waterfall makes it compelling (more space, lifestyle remains high at the same cost). But Waterfall remains an 'open city'. On the other side, Steyn City I can concur is an enclave that wishes it divorces itself from reality.
South Africa remains an elitist country just with the demographics of the elitists changing. The private sector will continue to cater for two South Africas by building these enclaves and those who are more fortunate will continue to inhabit them. The vast number of private estates in the country is an indication we are heading in that direction.