Korean EXIM Bank has committed Kshs 94 million to fund a feasibility study for the development of media city at the Konza Metropolis.
Konza Technopolis Development Authority Chief Executive Officer John Tanui says the digital media project which will be a key component in phase two of the Konza City development which targets to drive the development of Kenya’s creative industry.
The feasibility study for the media city is expected to take 10 months which according to Mr Tonui the feasibility study will be carried out by a governmental multi-agency team, which includes the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation.
“We are very excited to see the digital media city concept moving to full feasibility with the support of the Korean Exim Bank.” Mr Tanui said.
TV broadcasting, animation and gaming, filming and photography, and ICT programming will be the main components of the digital media city.
The project which will be constructed on a 60-acre piece of land and modeled around South Korea’s Sangam Digital Media City in Seoul is expected to drive the development of Kenya’s creative industry.
According to Konza Technopolis Development Authority, a number of investors have already shown interest in the project and as the authority scouts for partnerships to realize the development of the digital media city once the feasibility study is completed.
Once complete, the project is projected to create at least 50,000 jobs.
KoTDA is currently expanding the development of horizontal infrastructures such as roads, walkways, green spaces, and all basic utilities. According to Mr Tanui, phase one of the National Data Centre has been completed and operational while phase two will be completed by end of next year to attract additional investors to the city.
“We have an uptake of 30 percent of spaces at the Konza Technopolis. Some of the investors have received approvals for their design and construction is expected to start soon.” Mr Tanui added.
KoTDA further expects the construction of a 400Kv substation by KETRACO to commence in due course to enhance electricity supply to the tech city.
