Kenya and South Korean governments have launched four Economic Innovation Partnership Program (EIPP) initiatives that aim to accelerate the progress of the Konza Technopolis project.
These EIPP programs for the second year of collaboration between the two countries are:
- Intelligent Transport System (ITS) and Integrated Control Centre
- the establishment of a startup ecosystem at Konza Technopolis,
- the development of Smart Logistics in Konza
- the creation of the Konza-Nairobi Corridor Transport Network.
Intelligent Transport System (ITS) is the use of advanced technologies to various modes of transportation, including roadways, railways, airways, and waterways, to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The system integrates various technologies such as sensors, communication networks, and data analytics to provide real-time information to travelers, operators, and authorities, which enables them to make more informed decisions.
In October 2021, Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA) announced a partnership with the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) to create a platform for local and foreign investors to invest in Konza City. The agreement would enable the listing of companies and investment vehicles related to the technopolis, making it easier for investors to participate in its growth. The partnership aimed to promote Konza City as a viable investment destination and contribute to the growth of the Kenyan economy.
This launch of the second year’s EIPP projects comes after the implementation of the initial EIPP projects in March 2022, which consisted of developing the Smart City Master Plan, performing a feasibility study on the Integrated Control Centre, focusing on security operations, and setting up a transportation network and smart mobility plans that align with the city’s urban functions.
“The initiative marks yet another great milestone in the development of Konza Technopolis and for the transformation of Kenya through technology and innovation. This launch, today, follows the successful implementation of Year One Projects under the program last year, after the signing of the governing MOU,” said the Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy in Kenya, Eliud Owalo at the launch.
“Konza Technopolis has identified several candidate projects for consideration and I am pleased to note that four additional projects have been approved for implementation during the second year of the development program,” added the CS.
The implementation of the 2022/23 Economic Innovation Partnership Program (EIPP) between Kenya and Korea will be carried out by the Korea Trade-Investment & Promotion Agency (KOTRA) and KoTDA on behalf of the Korean and Kenyan governments, respectively.
