Economy: Konza City, symbol of the breakthrough of Kenya in the forefront of the African economy
Vision 2030
In 2008, the Kenyan government gave the go-ahead for the construction of the “Silicon Savannah”, the torchbearer of the Kenya 2030 project.
Since the beginning of the 21st century, the world economy has undergone a series of significant transformations.
We are more in a unipolar system, with the predominance of the Western economic system that dictates the rhythm of the other nations of the world. Today, countries like China, Russia, Brazil or India are affecting the global economy on the same scale as the United States or Germany could.
One of the major transformations of this new millennium remains the exponential development of new information and communication technologies. Technology is at the center of most economic and social activities. To be ahead of the technological scene, is to be several steps ahead of other countries.
It is in this context that African countries try to make their way to the big table. If many countries are in trouble, some have taken their destiny into their own hands; This is the case in Kenya.
Kenya, with its 44 million inhabitants, has established itself as the undisputed leader of East Africa and plans to become number one at the continental level. 53% of products exported are from agriculture, mainly tea and flowers. Unlike other countries on the continent, Kenya does not have an abundance of natural resources. The majority of its exports are agricultural products. It is therefore obliged to resort to innovation and therefore to its brains to develop its economy. It is no coincidence that today, Kenya is a continental leader in the technology sector. With many start-ups that offer a wide range of services designed to make life easier for traders and residents in general.
M-pesa is the most concrete example of this advance. A system of micro-financing that allows the realization of numerous transactions between individuals without resorting to the banks. M-pesa allows you to set daily purchases or even between business with the simple sending of an SMS. Today, transfers abroad are also feasible.
A revolutionary device not only in Africa but in the world that does not go unnoticed. Kenya now attracts the biggest tech companies like Google, Facebook or IBM.
Other start-ups are now shaping the Kenyan economic landscape, like “Soko Shop” that provides a platform for traditional craftsmen (Masai-Kikuyu-turkana) so that they can have a larger customer base.
Konza city will be the symbol of this promising development for the Kenyans and the whole region.
A world-class technology hub that will attract the world’s largest companies but also create an environment conducive to the growth of businesses made in Africa. A city that will function in a global and local way, respectful of its environment and the well-being of its population. Hospitals, universities and many other infrastructures will make this future city an attraction for a generation of young Africans who wish to return to Africa or study there to help them to offer themselves and cement a place of world leader.
Hopefully this city will encourage Kenyan neighbours like Rwanda or Uganda to undertake similar or more ambitious projects of similar proportions.
Source: French Web , Le Monde , Diplomatie.gouv.fr
Author: Yatma Gaye
Senegalese student, finishing his studies in business and administration.
Passionate about questions relative to africa and its development.
Aspiring entrepreneur who wishes to help his continent by any means necessary.
