At the 2025 Special Achievement in GIS (SAG) Awards, Konza Technopolis Development Authority emerged as a proud winner, recognized for its groundbreaking efforts in leveraging GIS to drive smart urban development in Kenya’s premier smart city. With a bold vision and cutting-edge technology, Konza set out to revolutionize how land information is managed and visualized, setting a precedent not only in Kenya, but across Africa.

The award-winning project had two key goals. First, to build a comprehensive Land Information Management System (LIMS); a dynamic spatial database that digitally captures and presents all parcel records within the Konza Technopolis area. This includes cadastral details, land use, land value, parcel sizes, location data, and key financial attributes like stand premiums, ground rent, and service charges. The system is further enhanced with web-based applications, offering seamless access and functionality to end-users and stakeholders.

Second, the project aimed to develop 3D digital models and CAD drawings for various existing and future structures. Utilizing completed architectural and structural drawings, as well as hypothetical models guided by the approved densities in the 5,000-acre land use plan, the team created a stunningly realistic virtual representation of Konza. These models are fully integrated into the Konza GIS lab, providing a platform where planners and decision-makers can interact with and refine development concepts in a 3D environment.

The overarching challenge addressed by the project was the need for a centralized, intelligent system that could unify all land-related operations across departments. In true smart city fashion, Konza’s GIS system now acts as a one-stop-shop for land transactions, enabling faster, more transparent decision-making and creating a foundation for sustainable, data-driven urban planning.

Technology Powering the Transformation

To bring this vision to life, Konza Technopolis implemented an impressive suite of Esri technologies:

• ArcGIS Enterprise Advanced (up to four cores)
• ArcGIS Urban Suite Online
• ArcGIS CityEngine
• ArcGIS Desktop Advanced
• ArcGIS Online Creator

These tools provided the foundation for powerful analysis, intuitive visualization, and effective collaboration across planning, compliance, and enforcement functions.

Meet the Team Behind the Innovation

This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the leadership and dedication of a multidisciplinary team:

• John Paul Okwiri, CEO – Konza Technopolis Development Authority
• Architect Annah Musyimi, Chief Manager – Physical Planning, Design & Compliance
• Peter K. Gathogo, Surveyor and GIS Specialist
• Planner Mercyleen Ndatho, Principal Urban Planner and Permitting Officer
• Planner George Wahome, Senior Development Control and Enforcement Officer
• Jane Mbori, GIS Specialist

Their combined expertise in urban planning, architecture, GIS, and policy enforcement ensured the successful design and implementation of a truly transformative project.

Konza’s win at the 2025 SAG Awards is more than a milestone, it’s a testament to the power of geospatial technology in shaping the future of African cities. As Konza continues to grow, its intelligent infrastructure and integrated digital systems will remain central to its promise of being a model smart city for the region and beyond.

Learn more about the 2025 SAG Award winners