Continental Event Set to be Hosted in Kenya Postponed

Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong’o has announced the postponement of the African Smart Cities Alliance (ASCA) Summit, which was set to take place between August 20 and 21.
In a statement released on Sunday, August 10, the governor cited unavoidable logistics and scheduling conflicts as the reason for the rescheduling.
However, he emphasised that this would allow for polishing of the event to ensure it fully delivers on its promise of a well-executed, inclusive, and impactful platform for investment, policy innovation, and intercontinental cooperation.
“On behalf of ASCA organising partners, I extend our warmest appreciation for your continued support and collaboration in our journey to host the African Smart Cities Alliance (ASCA) Summit in Kisumu,” the statement read in part.
“Following extensive internal consultations, and in light of unavoidable logistical and scheduling conflicts at the highest level of the County Government, it has become necessary to reschedule the ASCA Summit initially slated for August 20-21, 2025.”
He further emphasised that the decision had not been taken lightly, as several countries and partners had made extensive logistical arrangements and programme alignments to fit the event in their schedules.
As such, he apologised for the same, stating, “Please accept our sincere apologies for the inconvenience this may cause.”
“We are currently engaged in consultations with core planning partners’ countries to agree on mutually suitable revised dates for the Summit,” he added.
On May 15, the agreement was reached that Kisumu would host the inaugural ASCA summit in Kisumu after theCounty Government of Kisumu and the World Smart Cities Alliance signed a Memorandum of Understanding, marking the city’s formal entry into the ASCA network.
The partnership was sealed with Jaewon Peter Chun, the chairman and President of the World Smart Cities Forum (WSCF), who lauded Kisumu’s progressive vision and its potential to become a continental model for smart, climate-resilient urban planning.
Nyong’odescribed his appointment as a “deeply humbling moment” and pledged to use the role to champion African-led solutions in smart city development.
“This is more than just an achievement for Kisumu. It is a collective opportunity for Africa to shape its urban future on our own terms,” he said.