Kenya has partnered with the Republic of Korea in the third year of the Economic Innovation Partnership Programme (EIPP) at Konza Technopolis.
This initiative is a major thrust for Kenya’s Vision 2030 economic development goals, focusing on establishing flagship projects like smart farms, incubation complexes, and renewable energy—leveraging innovation for robust economic growth.
Kenya’s future-focused strategy is set to bolster job creation, benefiting local communities and drawing significant local and international investments.
Currently, Konza is a thriving employment hub, providing work for approximately 4,000 people across various sectors, thereby injecting dynamism into the community’s economic fabric.
EIPP, which actively supports Kenya’s Vision 2030, has been pivotal in championing innovation and entrepreneurship while contributing directly to the Sustainable Development Goals—particularly those emphasizing economic growth, industry, innovation, and sustainable energy.
Initiated in March 2022 through a Memorandum of Understanding between Kenya’s Ministry of ICT and Korea’s Ministry of Economy and Finance, the EIPP reflects the enduring relationship between the two nations.
Principal Secretary John Tanui highlighted the “cordial relationship” between Kenya and South Korea—spanning from tech collaboration to infrastructural development—cemented by shared values since Kenya’s independence.
He acknowledged the considerable stride made in the last two years, with South Korea’s inputs being especially influential in areas like innovation policy and sustainable economic development.
Acting Ambassador Kyoo envisions Kenya as the emerging “African Silicon Valley,” driven by the collective efforts to ground a smart city in Konza.
Underlining the Korean government’s commitment to Kenya’s digital transformation, Ambassador Kyoo conveyed optimism for tangible, result-oriented outcomes from this collaborative endeavor.
Pointing towards a deep-seated, sixty-year bilateral relationship, Ambassador Kyoo emphasized a strengthened alliance between Kenya and South Korea.
EIPP’s ambition is to execute 3 to 5 annually selected projects over four years, carving out mid and long-term strategies to refine legal frameworks, infrastructure planning, and achieve sustainable financing solutions.
Several Korean firms already have engaged under the program’s third year, directing consultations for innovative projects like smart farming and tech incubation centers in Konza.