In 2008, the Kenya government launched Vision 2030 an ambitious economic development blueprint aimed at transforming Kenya into an industrialized, middle-income state. One of the core projects of the Vision 2030 was the development of Konza Technology City, a technology hub dubbed the African Silicon Valley or Silicon Savannah. The Technology City’s ground-breaking ceremony took place in 2013, with projects set to take place in four to five year phases. The government also established the Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA) as a special purpose entity to facilitate the development of Konza.
In March, construction of the City’s first building begun at a cost of Kshs. 1.2 Billion. The building was set to host the offices of KOTDA besides hosting commercial and residential buildings. The government has in the mean time been inviting bidders for expression of interest for the construction of schools, roads with the city recently connected to electricity. Last year, there were reports that Korean Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (Kaist) was looking to open in Konza City. The University was at the time in talks with KOTDA and the Ministry of Education discussing the modalities of setting up the University.
According to Business Daily, the pact between Kenya and South Korea allowing for the setting up of the University will take place today. The project is slated to cost Kshs. 10 Billion and comprises of one of the deals to be signed during the state visit of South Korea President Park Geun-hye in Kenya.
