Futuristic African Cities Built Around Tech

African Futuristic Smart Cities Underway in 2022 

Back in 2010 or thereabouts, there was a huge need for African cities to be built to accommodate a tech-savvy future. Innovation emerging from the African continent encouraged wealthy individuals and governments to create cities where technological advances would be made. A career in tech, cryptocurrency, blockchain technology, and all-around innovation would bring about a great future for the whole world. Here are some of these project cities and their progress so far.

Akon City, Senegal

The $6 billion city is the brainchild of Senegalese American singer Akon. This mega project would feature ultra-modern skyscrapers with the city overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in the village of Mbodiene. Akon wanted this city to be a refuge for the African diaspora hence the name. The currency would be the Akoin which would be a cryptocurrency for this smart city. The first phase of Akon city is expected to be completed in December 2023.

Konza City, Kenya

This is a project of the Government of Kenya by the Konza Technopolis development authority. This will be a world-class technology hub with a mix of business, workers, residents, and urban amenities.  Konza city construction began in 2017 and at this time in April 2022 is 50% completed. The first phase of this project is projected to be finished in December 2022.

Kigali Innovation City

The master plan for Kigali Innovation City was unveiled in December 2021. The 61 hector site entails mix-use construction for three universities, research facilities, development facilities, business incubators as well as retail, hospitality, and accommodation. This is a project of the government of Rwanda that will integrate smart solutions for green solution transport and building designs. With a variety of green and open spaces to foster collaboration and exchange of ideas in the ecosystem. 

Modderfontein New City South Africa

This current defunct mega project in South Africa was proposed in 2013 by a private Chinese real estate firm. The goal was to create a New York in South Africa, however, a lack of investments and pushback from the municipal government led to the eventual demise of this project. The initial project may be dead in the water but it has inspired other such mega projects.

Which of these futuristic African cities are you rooting for? Which have the most potential for progressing the African continent. Comment below.