MAKUENI COUNTY, Kenya – In a significant step towards realizing Kenya’s long-term development blueprint, President William Ruto on Monday inaugurated the first phase of the Konza Technopolis, a massive project envisioned as Africa’s premier innovation hub.
The launch of the 400-acre initial phase marks a major milestone for the sprawling 5,000-acre Konza Technopolis, a cornerstone of Kenya’s Vision 2030 aimed at transitioning the nation to a knowledge-based, digital economy.
During the ceremony, President Ruto commissioned state-of-the-art infrastructure, including 40km of modern roads, 170km of water and drainage systems, and 6km of utility tunnels to house fibre optics. A key feature is a new 120MW smart power sub-station designed to support the city’s high-tech needs.
“The Konza Technopolis is steadily taking shape as a thriving hub of technology, research, and enterprise that will power Kenya’s transition to a digital economy and a first-world nation,” President Ruto stated.
The government reported strong investor interest, with commitments already secured from 77 entities. The newly developed land is now “investor-ready,” paving the way for construction to begin. Officials project that the first phase will eventually host 17,000 residents and workers, creating a significant number of jobs and contributing up to 2% of the national GDP.
The project incorporates cutting-edge innovations, including drone management systems and plans for nuclear research, solidifying its “Silicon Savannah” nickname.
President Ruto reaffirmed the government’s “full commitment to completing and operationalising Konza Technopolis to lay the country’s foundation of digital transformation and create jobs for our young people.” He also acknowledged the crucial support from international development partners, specifically thanking the governments of Italy, South Korea, China, and the United States for their collaboration in making the vision a reality.
