The “Robocops” of Kinshasa
As someone who spent most of my childhood navigating through the bustling streets of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo on my way to school or to hang out with friends, I got to witness some interesting transportation infrastructure that I never realized was special till I left home. One such example is the “robocop” which are “transformer-esque” robots that manage traffic in place of traffic lights and come fitted with rotatable bodies and video cameras. These robots were “developed by Women's Technology, an association of female engineers in the DRC” and have been implemented on roads since 2013.
Despite being a unique talking point within Kinshasa’s street networks, many have criticized the “robocops” for being used as a tool for superficially progressive urban planning development. Critics believe that the robots were “turning attention away from serious growth and infrastructure issues in the city” and instead being used as a tool for the government to portray themselves as modern and forward-thinking during election times. However, from conversations I have had with locals, there are also people who see the robots as a potential beacon of security due to their ability to capture accidents or other wrongdoings. Their presence also assures the avoidance of an encounter with corrupt officers who may charge drivers for their money without any wrongdoings being committed.
No matter your feelings on the “robocops” mentioned above, it is clear that they help bring a distinctive flavor to the streets of Kinshasa. During my trips on the road across Alberta, it was clear to me that such trinkets of charm and culture were few and far between. While it is definitely unfair to say that Canada should start implementing “robocops” into every intersection, we can improve our street infrastructure to break from the norm and implement functional everyday-use art for residents to enjoy.
As planners I feel like it’s partly our responsibility to break from the monotony of current street infrastructure. A big step in revitalization involves brainstorming with different parties such as the DRC did with its female engineers, to come up with ways in which our streets can be more reflective of our culture and thinking. Such as the “robocops”, these new infrastructures should aim to highlight the ingenuity of communities and generate delight among pedestrians and motorists alike.
-Written by Hussain Cochinwala (Photo courtesy of Horaci Garcia on BBC)