MPs pass Bill to establish Technopolis hubs across Kenya

Members of Parliament have passed the Technopolis Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 6 of 2024), which aims to establish a framework for the development and management of Technopolis hubs throughout the country.

The Bill, introduced by Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie, who chairs the Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation, seeks to create the Technopolis Development Authority.

According to the Bill, this body will be responsible for overseeing the planning, development, and governance of Technopolises in Kenya.

The Bill, which includes 65 clauses, aims to expand the current Konza Technopolis Development Authority by removing the geographical restrictions tied to Konza.

"As we speak today, Konza remains the only Technopolis in Kenya, but with this Bill, we can pave the way for similar hubs across the country. From Wajir to Mandera, Kisii to Tharaka, if the land allows, we can establish these innovation hubs to drive technological growth and economic development," Kiarie said during a session in Parliament on Tuesday.

"This is about turning a good idea into an even better one. By removing 'Konza' from the title, we open the door for the establishment of other Technopolises beyond Konza."

Another significant aspect of the Bill is the proposed revocation of the 2012 Konza Technopolis Authority Order, which was welcomed by many MPs.

Nominated MP Irene Mayaka who seconded the motion, highlighted the importance of extending Technopolis development to other parts of Kenya.

"This Bill provides a legal framework to establish, manage, and develop Technopolises across the country, addressing the urban challenges we face. No longer will everyone need to flock to Konza for opportunities. We can bring the opportunities to them," Mayaka said.

Embakasi South MP Julius Mawathe also expressed his support, emphasising the potential for the Technopolis Development Authority to improve ICT infrastructure and create opportunities for the youth, particularly through the establishment of ICT hubs.

"We are bringing three ICT hubs to my constituency this year alone, and the youth will benefit greatly. We have to support the infrastructure and policies needed to make Kenya a leader in the IT sector in East and Central Africa. This authority will help guide us in preparing for technological advancements like AI," Mawathe said.

The Technopolis Bill aligns with Kenya's Vision 2030, which aims to transform the country into a knowledge-based economy.

The Bill outlines that the Technopolis Development Authority will play a key role in fostering a high-tech innovation system and bridging the gap between academia and the private sector. With its passage, the Technopolis Bill is now set to be signed into law.

The National Assembly also approved a motion to extend its sittings beyond the usual schedule to address urgent legislative matters.

The additional sittings will allow Members of Parliament to discuss the President’s Address expected on Thursday, as mandated by the Constitution of Kenya, which requires MPs to debate the Address for three days.

In addition to this, lawmakers will use the extra time to consider priority business, including six finance-related Bills, before the long recess. The extended sittings will begin on Monday, November 25, with two sessions and will continue throughout the week and into early December.

The move aims to ensure that the House completes its critical legislative business before the break.