The Senegalese government has notified celebrated international music icon and entrepreneur Akon that he must start construction of his $6 billion Akon City project or risk losing 90% of the land granted to him if it remains undeveloped.
Reports from Senegal indicate that Akon was sent the notice after failing to make several payments to Sapco, the state-owned entity responsible for developing the country’s coastal and tourism areas.
In August 2020, Akon promised the Senegalese government that he would build Akon City, which would feature condominiums, offices, parks, a university, an ocean resort, and a 5,000-bed hospital.
Akon said he was inspired by the movie Black Panther, and he refers to Akon City as a “real-life Wakanda” that uses the latest technologies of blockchain and cryptocurrency. The city was to be solar-powered and environmentally friendly.
But the project has never progressed beyond the stage of promises.
Meanwhile, the popular singer also promised to build a similar city in Uganda. Much like Senegal’s Akon City, the Ugandan project will feature amenities such as shopping malls, stadiums, and recreational facilities, and will operate under his cryptocurrency Akoin.
In 2022, the government of Uganda allocated him one square mile of land in Mpunge sub-county, Mukono district. Just like in Senegal, the singer’s ambitious plan has never kicked off as costs of construction or the date of commencement have never been disclosed.
Last month, occupants of the said land blocked surveyors from marking it, saying the Uganda Land Commission has yet to engage them.
