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Malindi hosts conference to build Africa's first green metropolis in Kilifi

The Sandies Tropical Village in Malindi. (Photo: Sandies Tropical Village)

By Farhiya Hussein | Thursday, April 11, 2024

McCollough and fellow delegates were welcomed by Prof Lucas Njenga, CEO of Proximity Point Group, at Malindi International Airport before the conference and a visit to the 40,000-acre land purchased in Kanyumbuni, Magarini sub-county.

Malindi has become the hub of 400 Kenyan investors who live abroad and want to build Africa's first green metropolis in the Magarini sub-county, Kilifi County.

Most delegates have already arrived for a three-day event, where experts will train them on the optimal approach to developing the Proximity City of Returns.

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One of the keynote speakers at this year's conference, taking place at the Diamond Dream of Africa group of hotels in Malindi, is Doug McCollough. He's the CEO of Colour Coded Labs, an African American from Ohio, USA, renowned for his expertise in city development. He arrived in the country on Wednesday evening.

McCollough and fellow delegates were welcomed by Prof Lucas Njenga, CEO of Proximity Point Group, at Malindi International Airport before the conference and a visit to the 40,000-acre land purchased in Kanyumbuni, Magarini sub-county.

The proximity City of Return will feature an agricultural centre, an industrial park, and seaside resorts.

Njenga Proximity Point Group CEO, Prof. Lucas Njenga, stated their plans to develop Kenya's inaugural Green City, with final payments being processed for the purchase of over 40,000 acres in Magarini, Kilifi County.

He mentioned, "The Proximity City of Return is a Diaspora initiative aiming to bolster economic growth in Kenya by investing in various projects. We currently have approximately 40,000 acres allocated for agricultural activities and future city development."

Njenga stated that their strategy includes establishing a Special Economic Zone, incorporating factories alongside residential, entertainment, and institutional areas.

These zones will feature universities, hospitals, schools, and other investments.

Njenga mentioned they brought in McCollough, an expert from Ohio, known for using modern technology in urban development, to train the delegates on implementing smart city concepts.

He will provide them with insights, wisdom, and knowledge on transforming a city like Malindi into a smart city.

For him, Malindi's appeal as an investment destination stems from its proximity to the Indian Ocean and its access to the airport, facilitating ease of visitation.

He mentioned that Malindi offers diverse investment prospects spanning tourism and agriculture.

Maryanne Geotz, Director of Animal Conservancy Proximity Point Group who resides in the US, expressed eagerness to explore smart city development well ahead of the groundbreaking event.