Kenya aims to connect 8.5 million homes, businesses to internet in ambitious fibre expansion
By Maureen Kinyanjui |
As of now, the private sector has successfully connected 1.2 million homes and businesses with fibre internet.
The Kenya Kwanza Government has set an ambitious goal to provide internet connectivity to 8.5 million homes and businesses across the country, with a clear push for private sector involvement in expanding fibre networks.
As of now, the private sector has successfully connected 1.2 million homes and businesses with fibre internet, and the government is keen to continue this expansion to increase access to affordable digital services.
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In addition to the private sector's efforts, the government is also focused on connecting over 74,000 public institutions, including schools, hospitals, and government offices, to the Internet.
These efforts are part of a broader initiative to expand Kenya's digital infrastructure. The government has already laid 14,000 km of fibre cables and plans to extend this network to a total of 100,000 km to enhance nationwide connectivity.
ICT Cabinet Secretary Margaret Ndung'u said the government's commitment to expanding the digital superhighway to rural villages, ensures that every Kenyan can access affordable internet.
Speaking during the launch of the Jitume digital hubs and town hall meeting in Kakamega, Ndung'u stressed the importance of digital services in everyday life.
She pointed out that these services will not only be available in homes but also in schools, hospitals, and government offices, making it easier for Kenyans to access important documents and services.
"The government aims to ensure digital services are accessible at all locations including homes, schools, hospitals, and chief's camps, enabling easy access to documents," Ndung'u said.
Cyber hygiene
The CS added that with the increased access to the internet, the government is prioritising cyber hygiene at the household level to protect children from potential online threats.
"Avoid giving kids digital devices, expecting them to navigate content, and be vigilant to protect our future generation from potential threats," Ndung'u warned.
The government's fibre network expansion is also expected to lower the cost of internet access, making it more affordable for Kenyan households and businesses.
Ndung'u highlighted the importance of ensuring that internet services are not a financial burden on families.
"It is about disposable income, nobody should use 10 per cent of their disposable income to access digital services because it needs to be a public good," the CS added.
The availability of affordable internet, coupled with free Wi-Fi, has already led to an increase in smartphone ownership, as more Kenyans are investing in smartphones to access digital services.
John Tanui, Principal Secretary for the State Department for ICT and Digital Economy, echoed the government's vision, stating that digital hubs would be established in every ward across the country.
He also announced that the amendment of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) Act would allow MPs to allocate funds to support the creation of these hubs, turning the vision into reality.
"We want to ensure that there is a digital hub in every ward and we thank our members of Parliament," Tanui added.
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