This initiative looks to boost access to clean water in East Africa

In Sub-Saharan Africa, the access to clean water and sanitation remains disproportionally low compared to the rest of the world. In an effort to address this critical issue, a new partnership has emerged between Ericsson, Telenor Connexion, and Swedish tech company Wayout. This collaboration aims to bring sustainable plug-and-play micro-factories to areas in East Africa for the local production of clean and filtered water. The initiative was discussed in a recent interview on CNBC Africa with Kiva Allgood, Head of IoT at Ericsson. Allgood highlighted the importance of the partnership in addressing the challenges of providing clean drinking water to underserved regions. The innovative approach combines technology, mobility, and sustainability to produce 70,000 gallons of clean water, leading to significant reductions in plastic waste. One of the key aspects of the partnership is the role of global connectivity in enabling the operation of these micro-factories. By leveraging cellular technology, the portable units are fully connected, allowing them to adapt to demand and ensure efficient distribution of clean water. Ericsson's involvement as an innovative platform provider demonstrates the potential of bringing new products and services to market in a flexible and scalable manner. The pilot phase of the project is set to launch in East Africa, specifically in the Serengeti region, with plans to expand to the Middle East and other markets. The choice of East Africa for the pilot was driven by the market need and growth opportunities in the region. The initiative not only addresses the essential need for clean water but also promotes business innovation, particularly in conjunction with the tourism industry. In terms of the financial impact on consumers, the partnership aims to provide clean drinking water at a lower cost, making it more accessible to a wider population. Innovative business models, such as pay-per-consumption, are being explored to ensure affordability and sustainability in the long run. The 'factory as a service' model introduces new possibilities for delivering essential services in a dynamic and consumer-centric manner. Looking ahead, the placement and adoption of these micro-factories will depend on community engagement and participation. Allgood emphasized the role of communities in shaping the deployment of the technology, whether through pop-up enterprises or integrated community initiatives. As the project advances, communities are encouraged to explore new ways of embracing the technology and developing business models that cater to their specific needs and preferences. The partnership between Ericsson, Telenor Connexion, and Wayout represents a significant step towards improving access to clean water in underserved regions. By combining technology, sustainability, and innovation, the initiative offers a scalable and impactful solution to address the global challenge of water scarcity. As the project unfolds, it is poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of communities in East Africa and beyond.