Akon's Ambitious City Project Stalls in Senegal

It has been four years since Akon shared with the world his plans to build a modern city in Senegal, and “Akon City” has not yet appeared to become the platform of environmental stability and employment that it was supposed to be. Initially compared to the representatives of a fictional Wakanda state from the “Black Panther,” Akon was intended to be built on 136 acres of a beautiful Senegalese coastal land and was designed to include “everything from residential houses, retail stores, parks, resorts and schools”. Supplied with modern technical conveniences and operated by 100% solar energy and Akoin cryptocurrency, the city was set to become the beacon of hope and safety for the African migrants and exiles.

Apparently, however, it still remains what it used to be: pasture to the local animals. Since announced, the project experienced many legal disputes and disagreement in paying for building services, and it now relies on its patron proving his right to be the African billionaire. Alarmed by the apparent stagnation, the state company Sapco-Senegal, which supported the project from Akon’s side and rented the land to him, asked the singer to give some signals that he will move forward soon or he will be asked to return the land.

The event caused numerous debates about the political system in Senegal and the general ability of its authorities to manage huge urban projects.