Konza City – Kenya has officially opened its first National Drone Corridor at Konza Technopolis, a controlled airspace designated for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) approved the project after a comprehensive safety review by the UAS Multi-Agency Route Committee.
The corridor sets a legal and secure framework for drone testing, long-range flights, and high-impact tech innovation. It is designed to minimize collision risks, protect people and property on the ground, and address privacy and environmental concerns tied to unmanned aerial systems.
“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 during the launch event.
The drone zone will support applications in agriculture, emergency response, medical supply deliveries, and logistics sectors where drones have the potential to reduce costs, save time, and improve access to remote areas.
A total of 24,000 square meters of controlled airspace is now available for drone startups, universities, and industry partners. The corridor includes regulatory oversight, strict compliance mechanisms, and a collaborative ecosystem that enables shared research, training, and partnerships.
Key features of the Konza Drone Corridor include:
- BVLOS Operations: Allows for safe, long-distance drone flights that are critical for industrial and humanitarian applications.
- Open Access for Certified Operators: Permits approved institutions and innovators to test and refine drone solutions in a real-world environment.
- Ongoing Compliance and Monitoring: Ensures adherence to safety standards and flight regulations.
“We are incredibly excited to work hand-in-hand with innovators and organizations who share our mission to harness the immense potential of drone technology for positive societal impact,” said Annah Musyimi, Chief Manager for Physical Planning and Environmental Compliance at Konza Technopolis.
According to officials, the corridor positions Kenya as a regional hub for drone innovation and lays the groundwork for broader commercial drone operations in Africa.
Konza Technopolis is now inviting global tech firms, investors, and academic researchers to join its drone initiative. The zone is expected to stimulate economic growth, attract high-value investments, and provide a structured base for new drone-based solutions in both public and private sectors.
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