By Michelle Ndaga
President William Ruto has formally launched the Phase 1 infrastructure of the Konza Technopolis project in Makueni County, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s Vision 2030 drive toward a knowledge-based economy powered by smart technologies and green energy.
Phase 1 spans about 400 acres of the 5,000‐acre masterplan and includes the construction of roads, utility networks, and serviced land ready for investors. The Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA) reports that 77 investors have already committed, with plans to house over 17,000 residents and workers once operational.
Economists estimate that at full development, the Technopolis could contribute up to 2 % of Kenya’s national GDP through growth in ICT, real estate, research, and related sectors.
Officials at the launch highlighted innovative features planned for Konza, including drone management systems, nuclear research facilities, and advanced digital infrastructure positioning the city as a leading innovation hub in Africa.
KoTDA said over 80 % of horizontal infrastructure roads, drainage, street lighting and utility lines has already been completed, and the area has been gazetted as both a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and Export Processing Zone (EPZ) to attract investor incentives.
As president, Ruto emphasized that Konza is more than a technology park it is a catalyst for job creation, value addition and inclusive growth. He urged that subsequent phases must incorporate sustainable practices, affordable housing, and strong linkages with universities and industry.
Phases 2 and 3 will expand the footprint, adding more residential zones, research campuses, and vertical infrastructure. Meanwhile, KoTDA has already begun surveying additional land and courting development partners to sustain momentum.
With Phase 1 now inaugurated, Kenya takes a bold step toward realizing its ambition of a “Smart Kenya” anchored in technology, sustainability, and economic transformation.
