Akon collaborated with the Senegalese government to launch Akon City, an initiative aimed at promoting innovation and sustainability in Senegal’s M’bour Department. This project, inspired by the “Black Panther” film, seeks to recreate a real-life Wakanda.
After four years, Akon City’s development site features only one arched concrete block. Sapco-Senegal, the state’s tourism and coastal development agency, has issued an ultimatum to Akon: start construction soon or lose 90% of the allocated land. This strong attitude came after Akon failed to make several payments to Sapco.
Initially, Akon supported the city with the Akoin cryptocurrency during the 2020 market boom. However, Akoin’s value has dropped from $0.15 at launch to just $0.003, generating financial instability for the enterprise.
The first phase of Akon City, originally scheduled to be completed in 2023, is now facing indefinite delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, among other setbacks. Akon also intends to build a second city in Uganda, albeit this proposal faces severe hurdles.
Initially, local officials hoped that Akon City would stimulate the economy. They and the residents who gave up their land for the project are now skeptical, as promised compensations have yet to be paid and financing questions remain unanswered.
Despite this skepticism, Cheick Seck of Dakar-based Axiome Construction insists that necessary studies and assessments are currently underway.
Akon, born Aliaune Thiam, spent some of his childhood in Senegal before moving to New Jersey. Akon City is his most daring project yet, following blockbusters like “Locked Up” and efforts like Akon Lighting Africa.
The initiative has potential, as it has the support of Senegal’s former president, Macky Sall. Akon intends to visit Dakar soon to reassure stakeholders about the project’s viability.
As deadlines approach, the gap between Akon City’s grandiose concept and its existing reality grows, putting doubt on the future of this futuristic city.