Konza Technopolis has been officially approved as Kenya’s National Drone Corridor by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).
It becomes the country’s first controlled airspace dedicated to Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations.
The announcement was made by the Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA).
The authority called the move a major step in making the country a leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tech advancement in Africa.
KoTDA said the approval came after a thorough review by the UAS Multi-Agency Route Committee.
“This approval is a profound testament to Kenya’s progressive vision of becoming a global leader in smart technology and aviation innovation,” Konza Technopolis CEO John Paul Okwiri said.
KoTDA said the new corridor will allow long-distance drone flights to operate safely and under control.
It is expected to reduce risks to manned aircraft, people, property and the environment.
KoTDA said it will support drone testing, training and research by startups, universities and tech companies.
“The establishment of this drone corridor within a smart city will spur significant economic growth by attracting investment,” Okwiri said.
“It will create new opportunities and also firmly position Konza Technopolis as the premier destination for African tech talent and enterprise to thrive.”
According to KoTDA, the corridor will support drone use in key sectors such as agriculture, health deliveries, logistics, and disaster response.
All operations must follow KCAA’s strict safety and regulatory rules.
The corridor will also support controlled Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, allowing safe and efficient long-range drone missions.
“This crucial capability will enable the safe and efficient execution of long-range drone flights, unlocking the full potential of drones for real-world, impactful applications,” Okwiri said.
KoTDA said the airspace will be open to approved operators, researchers and training institutions.
“The corridor offers open access for authorised operators, researchers, and training institutions, fostering a dynamic environment for partnerships, knowledge sharing and collective innovation,” he added.
Additionally, a dedicated Corridor Operations Coordinator will manage daily operations.
The coordinator will ensure full compliance with aviation laws, monitor safety and improve how the airspace is used.
Chief Manager of Physical Planning at Konza Architect Annah Musyimi said the approval opens the door for greater partnerships.
“We are incredibly excited to work hand-in-hand with innovators and organisations who share our mission to harness the immense potential of drone technology for positive societal impact,” she said.
She also welcomed global interest in the corridor.
“Konza Technopolis extends invitations to both local and international partners to tap into the massive opportunities unlocked by the drone zone,” Musyimi said.
“We want stakeholders to exploit the myriad of benefits that come with drone technology.”
Drone Testing activity at Konza Technopolis by Jays pyrotechnics under the supervision of KCAA/KONZA TECHNOPOLIS
