Akon is refuting claims that his $6 billion Akon City development in Senegal has been scrapped.
In an interview with TMZ Hip Hop during a recent trip to New York City, the Grammy-nominated artist clarified that while construction delays have occurred, reports of the project’s collapse are misleading and rooted in bad faith.
Originally announced in 2018, Akon City was envisioned as a futuristic smart city powered by renewable energy and rooted in pan-African design, drawing aesthetic inspiration from Marvel’s Black Panther. The project promised innovation, tourism, and economic development in Akon’s native Senegal. However, after years of minimal visible progress, online critics have cast doubt on its viability.
Akon dismissed the skepticism, labeling it “misinformation” and accusing unnamed detractors—whom he likened to “Killmonger-type” figures—of attempting to derail efforts to build African-led infrastructure. He maintained that development is ongoing, though gradual, and asserted that the narrative surrounding the project has been warped by those eager to see it fail.
He also alluded to high-profile investors still engaged in talks, noting the importance of safeguarding their confidence and trust. According to Akon, this level of global resistance is emblematic of a broader trend: the undermining of ambitious, Black-led international ventures.
Despite the controversy surrounding Akon City, the artist remains active in other creative arenas. He revealed that his long-awaited country album is nearing completion, with about 60 percent of the project recorded.
Akon said he has been working closely with Rascal Flatts’ frontman Gary LeVox in Nashville, committing to a deliberate, immersive process that prioritizes authenticity over novelty. Rather than approach the genre from a superficial angle, he explained, the album reflects a deeper respect for country music’s heritage and storytelling tradition.
The dual pursuits—urban planning and genre crossover—highlight Akon’s commitment to building more than just entertainment brands. His long-term ambitions suggest a focus on legacy, both in cultural expression and tangible infrastructure. He acknowledged the challenges, particularly in launching a $6 billion city in West Africa, but framed the timeline as realistic rather than disappointing.
While critics continue to question the fate of Akon City, the artist remains firm in his vision. Whether through architecture or music, he’s betting on ideas that outlast headlines and refusing to scale down his aspirations.
Leave a Reply