Tana River is poised for a remarkable transformation as the county government hands over 500 acres to Canadian investors for a landmark Sh39 billion eco-city project.
The Areri Organic City, situated in Areri, Abakiki village in Bangale subcounty, is set to redefine rural development by blending modern urban living with environmental sustainability.
The initiative promises to convert a quiet village into a vibrant, self-sustaining community through housing, farming, renewable energy, and skills development.
The project, spearheaded by Conkrite Capital of Canada, has already commenced with a 20-acre pilot phase. Plans include eco-friendly homes, vocational training centres, regenerative farms, renewable energy installations, and supporting infrastructure such as roads and an airstrip to ensure seamless connectivity and growth.
Designed as a model for sustainable urbanisation in Africa, the city aims to lower carbon emissions while improving the quality of life for residents. Conkrite Capital described Tana River as the “Garden of Eden of Africa,” highlighting the region’s rich biodiversity and suitability for a city built around nature.
The Areri Organic City seeks to merge urban expansion with environmental responsibility, promoting a healthier, greener lifestyle and self-reliance. It is envisioned as a regenerative agro-urban development that will transform Abakiki and its surroundings into a modern hub of economic and social activities.
Local residents have welcomed the initiative, expressing confidence that it will generate over 2,000 jobs and elevate Tana River into a model climate-smart economic zone.
Governor Dhadho Godhana confirmed that the county and community had endorsed the project and emphasised that attracting investment is central to creating employment and stimulating growth.
“We need investors to unlock prosperity, create jobs, modernise infrastructure and drive inclusive growth,” he said.
He added; “We are showcasing Tana River as a preferred investment destination and a bustling hub of opportunities for local and international investors.”
The governor said the investment represents a strategic move to reverse years of neglect and marginalisation. He described the project as part of a “New Tana River” agenda that prioritises forward-looking, sustainable development. He also assured potential investors of full backing from the county government and revealed that more partnerships are in the pipeline.
The development, touted as one of the most ambitious eco-urban projects in East Africa, will feature 25,000 modern homes, renewable energy solutions, agribusiness initiatives, and comprehensive social and economic facilities.
“We want to take Tana River to the next level. Our county is disaster-prone, facing recurring droughts, floods, insecurity, diseases and high levels of poverty. We want to change this narrative through rural urbanisation such as this organic city, where education, health services, electricity, clean water, roads and modern living can be accessed by all,” he said.
Dhadho pointed out that the county is rich in land and natural resources, and the community should no longer remain in poverty despite its potential.
Conkrite Capital director Nicolas Val Delle described the project as a living ecosystem and the first city of its kind in East Africa.
“When you build people, people build cities. This is not just construction but a civilisation reborn,” he said. The plan is to create a fully integrated community with residential, commercial, and agricultural zones that operate in harmony.
Additional facilities will include renewable energy plants, vocational training centres, regenerative farms, an airstrip, and other infrastructure to support sustainable urban living.
