Musician turned entrepreneur Akon has provided an update on the much-anticipated Akon City project, emphasizing that the ambitious development is steadily progressing.
Originally announced in 2018, Akon City captured global attention as a futuristic, eco-friendly hub designed to revolutionize life in Senegal. Drawing comparisons to Wakanda, the high-tech utopia from Marvel’s Black Panther, the project promised a cryptocurrency-powered economy and innovative infrastructure.
The initial enthusiasm surrounding the announcement was immense. However, Akon acknowledged in an interview that the launch might have been premature, driven by excitement for a project of such cultural significance.
Despite the challenges, he remains committed to the vision, emphasizing that building an entire city is a complex, long-term process.
Watch Akon’s interview below:
Akon’s $6bn megacity
Early plans outlined an ambitious scope: a sprawling development covering 2,000 acres, with an estimated $6 billion budget. Groundbreaking occurred in 2020, but progress has been slower than initially expected.
Akon City, located in Mbodiene, Senegal, aims to serve as a beacon of innovation and economic growth for the African continent. It seeks to attract tourists, entrepreneurs, and investors from around the world.
Beyond its futuristic appeal, the project holds a deeper purpose by creating opportunities for Africans and promoting sustainable development. Akon has consistently highlighted the city’s potential to bridge the gap between Senegal and global markets, fostering a new era of technological advancement and economic prosperity.
The vision for Akon City includes luxury apartments, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and a progressive energy system. The cryptocurrency-based economy is designed to facilitate financial inclusion, offering new avenues for commerce and investment.
Akon City also aims to set a benchmark for eco-friendly urban development by focusing on renewable energy and modern technologies.