Ruto launches Konza smart city phase one, promises 10,000 homes and 10,000 jobs
According to the President, over 4,000 Kenyans are currently employed at Konza, with projections for 10,000 jobs in light manufacturing by 2026.
President William Ruto on Monday officially launched the first phase of Konza Technopolis, marking a major leap in Kenya’s vision to become Africa’s leading hub for innovation, technology, and sustainable urban living.
Speaking during the ceremony at Konza City in Makueni County, President Ruto described the project as “the foundation of a new Kenya built on innovation, knowledge, and technology.”
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Dubbed Africa’s “Silicon Savannah,” Konza Technopolis features 40 kilometres of modern roads, 170 kilometres of smart utilities, a 120MW gas-insulated power substation, and a water recycling plant capable of reclaiming 90 per cent of used water.
The city’s Intelligent Operations Centre employs artificial intelligence to manage traffic, street lighting, and security, while a Tier III National Data Centre supports digital government and enterprise services.
President Ruto also underscored Konza’s emerging role as an education hub, highlighting the Open University of Kenya, which hosts 15,000 students from 70 countries, Riara University’s new main campus, and the soon-to-open Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST).
“Together, these institutions are forming a dynamic ecosystem for learning, research, and commercialisation, turning Konza into a crucible of talent and innovation that will drive Kenya's knowledge economy for decades to come,” he said.
Ruto further announced the ongoing construction of the Konza Convention Centre, which will host international conferences and exhibitions, alongside the rollout of 10,000 affordable housing units designed to support a 24-hour innovation-driven economy.
“The first 1,000 housing units under phase one are already listed under Boma Yangu, with phase two comprising another 2,000 and a government commitment to deliver 10,000 homes in total,” he said.
“These homes are designed for a 24-hour innovation economy — smart, connected, and affordable for young professionals and families alike.”
The President noted that through initiatives like Jitume and Ajira, the Kenya Kwanza government has trained more than 9 million youth in digital skills, creating 300,000 digital jobs and supporting 740 creative productions.
“To support this momentum, the government is investing in the Konza Smart Digital Media City, a national hub for filmmakers, animators, and digital storytellers,” he added.
He also revealed plans for key infrastructure projects to strengthen Konza’s connectivity, including dualing of the Machakos Junction–Emali Road, integration with the Standard Gauge Railway to link Konza to Mombasa Port, and the establishment of a vaccine production facility to enhance Kenya’s biomedical capacity.
“The relevant ministries, departments, and agencies must give priority to and fast-track the implementation of the projects in close coordination with counties and private investors,” he said.
According to the President, over 4,000 Kenyans are currently employed at Konza, with projections for 10,000 jobs in light manufacturing by 2026.
“Konza is creating thousands of jobs and opportunities for our youth. More than 4,000 Kenyans are already employed here, and 10,000 more will join in the coming years,” Ruto said, noting that the average age of workers at Konza is just 28.
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