The government is stepping up efforts to develop Konza Technopolis into a smart city as it looks to attract more investment, create jobs and increase its contribution to Kenya’s economy.
The plans were discussed when Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy John Tanui met a delegation from the Korea Development Institute (KDI) and the University of Seoul.
The Korean delegation is in Kenya to study the development of Konza Technopolis and explore areas where the two countries can work together through Korea Development Cooperation projects.
Tanui said Konza is already changing as new facilities and housing projects come up, with more development expected over the next five years.
“In the next five years, you will see a lot of change because we are building from scratch. There was no accommodation, there was no housing, but now there is housing coming up,” Tanui said.
He said the growth of industries and other businesses within the technopolis would create more economic activity and provide employment opportunities.
The government estimates that Konza Technopolis could eventually contribute about two per cent to Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) once it reaches the targeted level of development.
Major projects at Konza
Several projects are already being developed at the technopolis as the government works towards its smart city ambitions.
They include the Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (Kenya-AIST), Digital Media City and the National Data Centre.
The projects are expected to support research, technology, digital services and innovation while helping attract businesses to the area.
The government has also been working to provide the infrastructure needed to support people living and working at Konza, including housing and other basic facilities.
The Korean delegation’s visit is expected to help identify areas where Kenya can benefit from South Korea’s experience in developing smart cities and technology-driven urban centres.
The delegation included University of Seoul professors Hyeon Park and Junwon Seo, researcher Hyemi Kim and Korea Development Institute Senior Research Associate Jun Kim.
The discussions are part of ongoing efforts to develop Konza as a technology and innovation hub and increase its role in Kenya’s wider digital economy.
