Konza Technopolis, Kenya's Special Economic Zone (SEZ) geared towards innovation and technology, has secured significant backing from South Korea.

The two countries signed an agreement for South Korea to finance three new projects at Konza Technopolis under the Economic Innovation Partnership Program (EIPP).

This is the third instalment of the EIPP program, building upon the success of the first two phases.

The initial program, implemented in the 2022-2023 financial year, focused on establishing the Konza Technopolis Smart City Masterplan, an integrated control centre, and a Transportation Network and Smart Mobility Basic Plan.

The second year of EIPP saw the selection of four additional projects that complemented the initial phase, aiming to propel Konza Technopolis towards its vision.

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The newly approved projects will focus on smart farms, an incubation complex, and renewable energy strategies.

These initiatives directly align with Kenya's aspirations to position Konza Technopolis as a hub for smart technology and modern living.

Nam Sang Kyoo, the Korean Ambassador to Kenya, emphasized the significance of these projects in advancing Kenya's technological landscape.

"These projects we are supporting are meant to support Kenya leap forward in terms of smart technology by having a smart city, Konza Technopolis adopt smart and modern technology,"  Kyoo stated.

The EIPP program serves as a novel and expanded model of Korea's Knowledge Sharing Program (KSP).

This program fosters mutually beneficial partnerships between South Korea and participating countries by offering comprehensive development consultations.

EIPP provides pre-feasibility and full feasibility studies, primarily for infrastructure and urban development projects, to support partner nations' economic growth.

Park Chul Ho, the Director General of the Development Cooperation Office (KOTRA), expressed confidence in the success of this phase.

"The successful implementation of the first and second program projects has given us the impetus to undertake this third phase to ensure we conclusively deliver on our commitment," Ho remarked.

With this latest agreement, South Korea has solidified its role as a key partner in Kenya's pursuit of transforming Konza Technopolis into a thriving centre for smart technology and innovation.