Akon’s eponymous city project, envisioned as a $6 billion futuristic metropolis in Senegal, now faces a critical ultimatum.
The Senegalese government issued an ultimatum to the singer-entrepreneur to commence substantial construction work or risk losing the majority of the land allocated for the project.
Akon’s father was born in Senegal and Akon spent a lot of time there as a child.
In 2020, the ‘Locked Up’Singer announced plans to build Akon City, a high-tech, eco-friendly urban center inspired by Wakanda from Marvel’s Black Panther.
The Senegalese government granted him 136 acres on the Atlantic Coast to develop the city. The project promised to feature condominiums, amusement parks, a seaside resort, hospitals, a police station, a university, and infrastructure powered by solar energy and Akoin cryptocurrency.
The goal was to transform the rural area 60 miles south of Dakar into a modern, vibrant city that would attract businesses, create jobs, and boost the local economy. However, four years later, the site remains undeveloped, with only a single arched concrete block marking the project’s foundation. As of now, the construction site is primarily used for grazing livestock, with no significant progress in sight.
Sapco-Senegal, the state-owned entity responsible for coastal and tourism development, has issued a formal notice to Akon, demanding the commencement of construction or the risk of losing 90 percent of the land, according to Bloomberg.
The notice comes after Akon missed several payments to Sapco, raising concerns about the project’s financial viability, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the project.
In addition to the luxurious amenities, Akon City was touted as a green city, with solar power and the Akoin cryptocurrency as its economic backbone.
Akoin’s value has plummeted since its launch, further complicating the project’s prospects. The Biget crypto sank to $0.003 in value in December. This is it’s last available price.
Local leaders and residents, who initially welcomed the project with hopes of economic upliftment and modern infrastructure, are now expressing skepticism.
Village chief Diome, once a staunch supporter, now voices doubts about the project’s future. Bloomberg reported that while Diome had hoped Akon would transform his community but told the paper, “We’re still waiting.”
Lawmaker Bara Gaye told parliament in February 2023, “Akon City is a scandal,” according to Bloomberg.
