3 days ago
Musandam honoured at WSIS 2025 for smart lighting
GENEVA: Musandam Governorate was honoured at the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS 2025) in Geneva, organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), for its innovative smart street lighting project utilising Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. The project was recognised as one of the best entries for its sustainability and practical applicability.
The WSIS competition's supervisory committee and judging experts praised the project as a practical model that can be replicated in diverse urban environments, thanks to its technical innovation and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Amna bint Mohammed al Shihiyah, Director of the Information Technology Department at the General Directorate of Administrative and Financial Affairs in Musandam Governorate, explained that the project is built on an integrated technical framework. It involves installing smart sensors and devices in lighting poles that collect data on natural light intensity, pedestrian and vehicle movement, weather conditions and the condition of the fixtures themselves. This data is then transmitted to a central operations platform, where it is analysed and used to make automated decisions on turning lights on or off and adjusting brightness levels as needed, maximising operational efficiency.
She noted that the smart system allows real-time monitoring of the network, enabling early fault detection and direct alerts to maintenance teams. This significantly reduces response times and improves service levels for residents and visitors. Additionally, the system generates analytical reports to support infrastructure planning and decision-making.
Al Shihi highlighted that the project marks a qualitative leap on several fronts. Technically, it reduces electricity consumption by up to 40 per cent compared to traditional systems and extends the lifespan of lighting fixtures through demand-based operation. Environmentally, it helps reduce the carbon footprint, supporting Oman's push towards green development and smart cities. Administratively, it boosts resource management efficiency; and lowers operating and maintenance costs over time.
She emphasised that this recognition is a national achievement that enhances Musandam's status as a pioneer in leveraging technology to serve the community and promote efficiency and sustainability. It also underscores the governorate's commitment to Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises digital transformation and environmental sustainability.
The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) is a leading global initiative in the field of information and communication technology for development. It was launched under UN auspices and is managed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in cooperation with other UN agencies. The summit aims to encourage digital innovation and foster the implementation of technology projects that contribute to achieving the SDGs worldwide.
Each year, the WSIS Prizes competition honours outstanding technology projects that serve society in innovative and sustainable ways. The competition attracts hundreds of submissions globally from governments, private sectors, civil society and academia. Prizes are awarded across 18 main categories, including digital infrastructure, environment and smart cities, e-government, risk and disaster management; and innovation and entrepreneurship. — ONA
