KWS gives Konza Technopolis nod to register Wildlife Conservancy

In a statement, Konza indicated that the conservancy forms part of the Athi-Kapiti ecosystem that provides habitat for crucial wildlife species including the Grey Crowned Crane, Rupell’s Griffon Vulture, White Backed Vulture, Zebras, Gazelles and the Maasai Ostrich.

The Technopolis says its purpose is to be a smart city in Africa with a formally registered wildlife conservancy reinforcing its vision of creating a world-class smart city where innovation, economic development and environmental stewardship coexist.

KWS regulations require that the conservancy be maintained for a minimum of 15 years and be supported by a comprehensive wildlife conservancy management plan that the technopolis has allegedly put in place.

Konza Technopolis believes that through this conservancy, several opportunities would be made available like sustainable tourism and eco-tourism development, wildlife research and biodiversity conservation, carbon credits and climate-finance initiatives.

Also, Konza expects an increase in environmental, social and governance-aligned investments, premium eco-living developments and educational opportunities.

Konza maintains that the conservancy would be critical to its master plan of dedicating 1000 acres to a wildlife corridor that would foster biodiversity and allow nature to coexist with urban technology.

The Technopolis Development Authority CEO, John Paul Okwiri, welcomed this move stating that the process is a demonstration that technological advancement and environmental conservation are not competing priorities.

“This conservancy reflects our vision of creating a smart, resilient, and inclusive city where people, nature, and technology thrive together,” he said.