Konza inks deal with China’s HICOOL to support Kenyan Startups

The agreement was formalized during the Silicon Savannah Startup Fair held at Konza Technopolis, where innovators showcased breakthrough solutions in sectors such as waste management, agri-tech, and smart water systems. 

“This partnership underscores Konza’s commitment to positioning Kenya as a global hub for cross-border innovation. We are excited to open new pathways for our startups in China’s dynamic tech ecosystem,” Konza Technopolis CEO John Paul Okwiri.

The partnership aims to establish a cross-border innovation platform that accelerates bilateral cooperation in technology transfer, startup development, and investment. 

“HICOOL is proud to collaborate with Konza Technopolis in bridging resources and talent between China and Africa. Together, we will empower entrepreneurs to innovate and scale globally,” HICOOL CEO Wu Yi noted.

From the deal, Kenyan Startups will participate in the HICOOL Global Entrepreneurship Competition.

The MOU also offers an Innovation Soft-Landing Program to support incubation and innovatio and exchange programs to promote regular interactions among government agencies, tech enterprises, research institutions, and investors from both countries.

As a first step in operationalizing the agreement, 3 Kenyan startups were nominated to participate in the HICOOL Global Entrepreneurship Summit in Beijing, scheduled for October 2025.

The HICOOL delegation led by the Ms. Wu Yi toured an exhibition of participating Startups at Konza technopolis, during the Silicon Savannah Start Up Fairs. 

Amongst the innovations showcased were; Composi.it; waste-to-resource solution, Ustawi Nutrition Care; Value addition to mangoes and honey and Wable; a smart water management system.