Kenya Marks Major Milestone with Launch of Konza Technopolis Phase 1

Kenya has officially launched Phase 1 of the Konza Technopolis Horizontal Infrastructure, marking a significant step forward in the country’s ambition to build Africa’s Silicon Savannah — a smart, green, and globally competitive city driving innovation, sustainability, and industrial transformation.

The event, attended by senior government officials, legislators, and development partners, was presided over by President Dr. William Samoei Ruto, whose leadership and vision for Kenya’s digital transformation continue to steer the nation toward becoming an innovation-driven economy.

Speaking during the launch, John Kipchumba Tanui, former founding CEO of the Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA), described the milestone as a “historic realization of Kenya’s bold vision to transition from a developing to a newly industrializing nation.” He expressed deep gratitude to President Ruto for his steadfast support throughout the project’s journey — from an open savannah grassland to what is now a thriving smart city and special economic zone integrating research, innovation, and sustainable living.

Tanui highlighted that under the stewardship of the current KoTDA CEO, John Paul Okwiri, Konza continues to expand its impact and reinforce Kenya’s position as a regional innovation hub. Quoting the President, Tanui noted, “Konza is not merely infrastructure — it is the architecture of Kenya’s future economy.”

The completion of Phase 1 delivers a wide range of state-of-the-art infrastructure, including:

• 40 km of smart roads, landscaped boulevards, and green corridors;
• 170 km of utility networks for water, power, and digital connectivity;
• A 120MW smart distribution substation;
• Advanced water treatment and reclamation facilities;
• East and Central Africa’s first vacuum-based solid waste system;
• The Smart City Operations Center, Experience Center, and Tier III National Data Center;

As well as new affordable housing developments and a growing academic hub, including the Open University of Kenya, Riara University, and Kenya-AIST.

The launch event was graced by senior government officials, led by Cabinet Secretary Hon. William Kabogo Gitau (ICT & Digital Economy) and Hon. Alice Wahome (Housing & Urban Development), alongside principal secretaries from various ministries. Members of Parliament, including Hon. Thuddeus Nzambia (Kilome Constituency), Hon. John Kiarie (Chair, ICT Committee – National Assembly), and Hon. Allan Chesang (Chair, ICT Committee – Senate), were also in attendance, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening Kenya’s digital and innovation agenda.

Special recognition was given to Hon. Regina Ndambuki, former MP, for her early advocacy and groundwork in shaping the Konza vision, and to the governors and leadership of Machakos, Makueni, and Kajiado counties for their continued partnership in supporting this national project.

Reflecting on the journey from concept to realization, Tanui described Konza Technopolis as “a living symbol of Vision 2030 and the BETA Digital Superhighway,” underscoring Kenya’s determination to move boldly, purposefully, and irreversibly into the First World.

“The future is here. Kenya is ready. Konza is ready,” he concluded. “Together, we are building Africa’s smartest city and a beacon of innovation for generations to come.”