Growing solutions: New deal expands AI-powered air-quality monitoring in South Africa
The innovative technology, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), is called AI_R and was developed by the South African Atmospheric Quality Monitoring (SACAQM) team. Designed to measure air-pollution levels in real-time and provide critical data for analysis, 30 of these cost-effective, cutting-edge devices have been monitoring air quality in and around Johannesburg, in South Africa’s Gauteng province, since 2023.
The collaboration with Evotel will see the installation of 120 more AI_R monitors across Gauteng province in 2025, and result in the largest and most cost-effective air-quality network in Africa.
“By working with Evotel, we’re taking a significant step forward in addressing air pollution challenges in Gauteng,” said Professor Bruce Mellado, SACAQM executive director. “This partnership allows us to make high-quality environmental data accessible to all.”
Gauteng faces growing air-pollution challenges due to rapid urbanization and industrial activity. Poor air quality has severe health implications. It is responsible for more deaths across the African continent than the combined death toll of HIV, malaria and tuberculosis, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Evotel’s network infrastructure ensures the seamless operation of these sensors. “We’re proud to support SACAQM in this vital initiative,” said Albert Oosthuysen, Evotel’s CEO. “Together, we’re creating a healthier and more sustainable Gauteng.”
The sensors are developed in South Africa at a cost of about USD100 (CAD143) each. Mounted on windowsills to capture data, the devices use limited amounts of electricity and can withstand various weather conditions. There are plans to deploy the sensors across South Africa.