Konza Tecno City to host U.S based SMEs

Kenya’s economy is fueled by growth in several industries: agriculture, tourism, construction, transport, communications, and most notably, ICT.

Kenya also has a robust network of public and private sector ICT research and development hubs, including public institutions such as the University of Nairobi’s Fab Lab; private institutions such as Strathmore University’s iLab Africa; and private sector hubs such as iHub, among many others.

Konza Technology City represents a strategic opportunity to invest in the growth of the ICT sector in Kenya as well as the country’s overall economy. When completed, Konza Technology City will be a world-class technology hub, home to leading companies in education, life sciences, telecom, and BPO/ITES. Commercial space for these uses will be complemented by diverse residential neighborhoods, hotels, a variety of retail offerings, community facilities, and other public amenities.

Konza’s world class infrastructure, high connectivity, active public realm, and cosmopolitan environment will allow companies to attract top talent and companies to the region.

Konza Technopolis Authority has signed a partnership with an American business lobby that will position Kenyan SMEs to better compete in regional and international markets. Through the establishment of Small and Medium enterprises Development Programme, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across Kenya and the US will be able to access and obtain business development opportunities through export promotion, joint ventures, strategy alliance and direct investment.

The National Business league is national federation of individuals, firms and associations engaged in business enterprises, with members drawn from over 37 states whose aim is to support its member’s access business opportunities in deferent parts of the world.

In the recent months Konza has registered good interest by the private sector particularly the telecom operators and leading banks who want to locate their data centers and other ICT investments in Konza.

The partnerships come amidst significant milestones in infrastructure development that has seen the construction of four kilometers of road network within the Konza city completed. A total of seven boreholes have so far been drilled and water piping has been done. Fibre connectivity from the National Optic Fibre Broadband has also commenced on site.

United States of America is the largest trade partner with Kenya, the trade volumes exceeding $1.5 billion per annum.

Article by Mercy Kariuki.