Grace Ashiru
Kenya and South Korea have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to build smart cities in Kenya. The MoU was signed by the Kenyan Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy and the Korea Trade Center Nairobi (KOTRA).
The MoU will see the two countries cooperate on some projects, including:
The construction of 5,000 housing units in the Tatu City Special Economic Zone (SEZ)
The development of a roadmap for the growth of five digital cities in Lamu, Dongo Kundu, Athi River, Sagana, and Naivasha
The development of a smart transportation network for Konza Technopolis
The MoU also made provisions for cooperation on research and development, training, and the exchange of information and best practices.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Engineer John Tanui, Principal Secretary of the ICT and Digital Economy, said the MoU was a “significant step forward” in Kenya’s digital transformation. He also said that the collaboration with South Korea would help Kenya to “harness innovation and emerging technologies for sustainable infrastructure.”
Eom IK-Hyun, managing director of the Korean Trade Centre (KOTRA), said that Korea was “Dedicated to supporting Kenya’s development of smart cities.” He said that the collaboration between the two countries would “relieve them to create a more sustainable and prosperous future for Kenya.”
The MoU is a significant growth in Kenya’s efforts to become a regional leader in the growth of smart cities. The partnership with South Korea will enable Kenya to have access to expertise and resources that will be essential to the successful enforcement of these projects.
The growth of smart cities is a key part of Kenya’s Vision 2030, which is the target to transform Kenya into a middle-income country by 2030. Smart cities are distinguished by the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to improve the efficiency and sustainability of urban services. It will help to improve the quality of life for citizens, reduce environmental impact, and promote economic growth.
The MoU between Kenya and South Korea is a positive step towards the development of smart cities in Kenya. It is a clear indication that Kenya is dedicated to this important initiative.
