NAIROBI, Kenya, April 18 – Kenyans living in 19 counties will soon be able to enjoy low-cost internet services through the launch of last-mile fibre optic cable connectivity.
This comes after the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) and the ICT Authority (ICTA) signed an agreement that targets unserved and underserved devolved units.
Turkana, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Tana River, and Lamu will benefit from the initiative.
Others are Kilifi, Kwale, Kitui, Laikipia, Isiolo, Garissa, Wajir, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, and Narok.
Under the Technical Cooperation Agreement (TCA), CA will support the deployment of fibre in the identified counties at a cost of Sh5 billion through the Universal Service Fund (USF).
USF’s role is to support the rollout of infrastructure and communications services in marginalized areas of the country.
To enhance broadband activity in the country, the Government Digital Transformation Agenda (GoDTA) seeks to deploy 100,000 kilometers of fibre.
‘‘What we are doing today is phenomenal and will greatly transform the country in the years to come,’’ said CA Director General Ezra Chiloba at the signing ceremony.
The agreement gives effect to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the two institutions in December 2022.
ICTA Chief Executive Officer Stanley Kamanguya hailed the partnership with CA, saying it will help Kenya attain its digital transformation agenda.
‘‘It is an interesting time to begin the 100,000 kilometre journey,’’ he observed.
The project will be implemented within a maximum period of three years.
