It comes after the successful implementation of the first EIPP projects in March 2022, which included the development of the smart city master plan and a feasibility study on the integrated control center, focusing on security operations and the establishment of an intelligent transport system.

Others were smart mobility plans that meet the urban functions of the city and consultation for the establishment of a startup ecosystem in Konza Smart City.

KOTRA Kenya MD Ik Hyun Eom said that they are looking for the successful rollout of the third phase of the program.

“Our intention is to deepen our cooperation through promoting of Public Private Partnerships so that the Korean business communities can also get involved during the development of Konza Technopolis,” KOTRA Kenya MD said.

He said that once complete, Konza Technopolis will act as a standard and a technical innovation icon within the East African Region.

On his part, Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA) Chief Executive Officer John Paul Okwiri said the implementation of a smart transportation corridor between Konza city and Nairobi would enhance trade and improve connectivity within Nairobi and its environs.

“The intelligent transport system is one of the four projects that has been successfully studied and once implemented, Konza will essentially act as a strategic logistics hub between Nairobi and Mombasa,” Okwiri said.

EIPP is an extended cooperation grant model from the Korean government meant to foster mutually beneficial relationships between partner countries and Korea. The grant is in kind.

The program supports identified projects annually for a maximum of three years, focusing on establishing mid- and long-term development strategies, improving laws and systems, planning infrastructure, and financing plans.

The 2022/23 Kenya-Korea EIPP was implemented by the Korea Trade-Investment and Promotion Agency (KOTRA) and the Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA).