Sh39 billion organic city breaks ground in Tana River as residents eye new era of prosperity

Hope is rising in the remote village of Abaq-qiq after Canadian firm ConKrite Capital officially commenced ground work for what is billed as East Africa's most ambitious eco-urban development — a Sh39 billion organic city designed to transform the drylands of Tana River County into a global model of climate-smart living.

The futuristic project, which blends sustainable housing, regenerative agriculture and renewable energy, is expected to reshape the economic and social landscape of Bangale sub-county over the next decade.

According to ConKrite Capital, the start of preliminary infrastructural works marks a critical shift from concept to reality — one that could position Tana River as a continental hub for agro-industrial innovation.

"This is more than a building project; it is a living ecosystem — a future model community," reads a statement from the company.

The organic city — the first of its kind in the region — will incorporate residential, commercial and agricultural zones designed to operate as a self-sustaining community.

Eco-homes, vocational training centres, renewable-energy facilities and regenerative farms will anchor the development. The project also integrates an experimental "time-based economy," in which community service and shared labour support local livelihoods.

Situated along the busy Garissa–Nairobi highway, the project, where 150 community members are already registered, is expected to give Abaq-qiq village a complete facelift, turning what was once a drought-stricken settlement into a centre of green innovation.

ConKrite director Nicolas Val Delle said the first phase of the project will cost Sh39 billion and unfold over 12 years, with plans to put up at least 25,000 homes for residents.

"We are here to ensure these communities get the dignified lifestyle they deserve — without becoming a money-procurement city," Delle said.

"There have been many interactions and meetings over the last four years with both the locals and the county government to explain what the project entails and how it will benefit them. As we expand the relationship with communities and acquire more land, the project will continue to grow."

In July, Tana River Governor Dhadho Godhana appointed members to the County Investment and Corporation Board and the Municipality Board in anticipation of the project's rollout.

The creation of the two boards was part of a broader strategy to boost the county's institutional capacity to attract investors, improve governance and fast-track service delivery — a signal that the devolved unit is gearing up for major economic transformation.

Locals, most of whom migrated to Abaq-qiq after losing their livestock to repeated droughts, say the development has brought renewed hope.

Fatuma Abikar, a mother of eight, said selling charcoal along the highway had been the community's only source of survival.

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"This project is a dream come true. It will transform our lives," she said. "We have suffered for years, but now we see a future for our children."

If completed as designed, the organic city is expected to provide thousands of jobs — especially for women and youth — and boost the county's agricultural productivity through modern, drought-resilient farming technologies.

County officials say the project could elevate Tana River onto the global map, attracting tourists, researchers, investors and climate-innovation partners.

With heavy machinery already on the ground and excitement building among residents, the once quiet village of Abaq-qiq may soon become the face of a new era in eco-friendly urban development.