Drone testing during the launch of the First unmanned traffic management (UTM) system in Konza Technopolis by High Lander who will provide its Vega UTM solution to support the establishment and operation of the Konza National Drone Corridor (KNDC), which will be Kenya’s first beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS)-approved UAS technology./KNA
The Konza Technopolis drone operations have started in earnest with the launch of the first unmanned aircraft system (UAS) technology facility powered by High Lander’s Vega Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) system.
The Vega UTM solution forms the digital backbone of the Konza National Drone Corridor (KNDC), Kenya’s first Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS)-approved drone facility.
The KNDC will enable safe, compliant, and scalable drone operations, cutting administrative delays through a unified digital portal and ensuring airspace safety with Vega’s conflict-avoidance and real-time coordination features. Secure data exchange with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) further enhances compliance and safety.
Anchored within Konza’s innovation ecosystem, the corridor will support drone deployment across healthcare, agriculture, logistics, aerial mapping, infrastructure inspection, conservation, and emergency response.
It is also expected to stimulate job creation, entrepreneurship, and investment, positioning Kenya as a leader in Africa’s smart mobility future.
“The launch of the Konza National Drone Corridor and deployment of the UTM is a landmark step in advancing Kenya’s innovation ecosystem,” said Ben Waweru, Director of Data Centre and Cloud Services, who was representing Eng. John Tanui, Principal Secretary, State Department for ICT and the Digital Economy.
“This initiative integrates drone technology into key sectors while aligning with our vision to harness technology for inclusive growth.”
John Paul Okwiri, CEO of Konza Technopolis, added: “The unmanned Traffic Management system is a defining moment in our smart city journey. It unlocks economic opportunities, enhances public service delivery, and ensures a safe, regulated environment for drone operations.”
Eden Peled, Country Director at High Lander, noted: “It’s an honor to power the KNDC, the first BVLOS UAS sandbox in Africa. With KCAA’s support, Vega UTM will enable safely scalable drone applications as the corridor expands.”
The launch was attended by representatives from the Embassy of Israel in Nairobi, the Ministry of ICT and the Digital Economy, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and other privately run drone companies, underscoring the multi-stakeholder commitment to positioning Kenya at the forefront of drone innovation.
The KNDC is now live and operational, marking a new chapter for advanced aviation in Kenya and across Africa.
