African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) has officially broken ground for its new state-of-the-art research complex at Kenya’s Konza Technopolis, a world-class smart city set to redefine county’s next revolution chapter.
The new ACTS Complex will sit on a 2.1-acre and is designed to be an anchor institution for technology and policy research.
It marks a pivotal milestone for the inter-governmental organisation as it transitions from its long-time base at the ICIPE Duduville Campus to a permanent regional headquarters.
The first phase of construction will include a four-story facility with modern office and collaboration spaces, advanced research laboratories and innovation hubs, as well as facilities for technology transfer and commercialisation.
It will also have regional hubs for policy engagement and talent development.
ACTS, founded in 1988 by the late Professor Calestous Juma, has spent nearly four decades pioneering the integration of policy research, science, and technology.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Tom Ogada, executive director of ACTS, emphasized that the hub is more than just a building.
“This ground breaking reflects our conviction that Africa’s future will be shaped by science, technology, and bold partnerships. The complex will provide a practical platform to translate evidence into solutions,” he stated.
John Paul Okwiri, CEO of the Konza Technopolis Development Authority, welcomed ACTS as a strategic addition to the growing ecosystem.
He noted that the presence of such a prestigious research body reinforces Konza’s mandate to transition Kenya into a knowledge-based economy, aiming to contribute up to 2% of the national GDP.
“ACTS’ investment at Konza Technopolis signals strong confidence in Kenya’s research and innovation potential,” Okwiri said.
The construction phase is expected to last approximately 45 weeks, with the facility projected to be operational by early 2027.
ACTS joins a prestigious list of investors, including Riara University and various technology firms, who are now moving from the planning stage to physical construction.
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