Northeastern region leads country in internet accessibility - Report
Internet penetration in the area has surged from 65 per cent in 2023/24 to an impressive 83 per cent in 2024/25.
Northeastern Kenya has emerged as the country’s most connected region, surpassing even Nairobi in internet accessibility, according to the latest report from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).
The data signals a major shift in Kenya’s digital landscape, as improved infrastructure, increased mobile penetration, and government-led initiatives drive connectivity in previously remote areas.
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Historically perceived as a remote region with limited access to technology, Northeastern has undergone a remarkable digital transformation.
Internet penetration in the area has surged from 65 per cent in 2023/24 to an impressive 83 per cent in 2024/25.
This growth is largely attributed to significant investments in fibre-optic networks, expanding 4G and 5G coverage, and the increasing affordability of smartphones.
Government initiatives such as the National Digital Master Plan and the Universal Service Fund (USF) have also played a key role in bridging the digital divide by ensuring that marginalized areas receive adequate internet infrastructure.
Strong digital presence
Meanwhile, Nairobi, which is known as Kenya’s traditional tech hub, has maintained a strong digital presence, though its internet penetration has slightly declined from 81 per cent to 79per cent over the past year, coming in second.
While the city remains a key driver of Kenya’s digital economy, the minor drop suggests that growth in connectivity is plateauing as other regions catch up.
Other parts of the country have also experienced varying levels of digital expansion. Northwestern Kenya saw a small but steady increase in internet usage from 57 per cent to 58per cent, indicating a gradual shift toward digital adoption.
The Coast region recorded a modest improvement, rising from 64 per cent to 65 per cent, while Central Kenya’s connectivity grew from 56 per cent to 58 per cent.
Lower Eastern and Upper Eastern also experienced slight increases, with the former climbing from 50 per cent to 55 per cent and the latter holding steady at 55 per cent.
Despite these advancements, some regions continue to lag in digital access.
The Lake region saw an increase in internet usage from 49 per cent to 55 per cent, though challenges in rural connectivity persist.
Small jump
Rift Valley also recorded a small jump, now standing at 55 per cent, up from 53 per cent the previous year.
South Nyanza, one of the least connected regions, saw a slight improvement from 45 per cent to 53 per cent, but it still faces significant infrastructure challenges.
Western Kenya, however, remains one of the country’s least connected areas, with internet penetration fluctuating between 46 per cent and 48 per cent.
The CA report cites poor infrastructure, limited investment in mobile networks, and geographical challenges as key factors slowing digital adoption in the region.
Unreliable service
While urban centres have moderate connectivity, many rural areas still experience unreliable service and slow speeds.
The growing regional disparity in internet access raises concerns about deepening economic and social inequalities.
Digital experts warn that without targeted investments, regions with slower digital growth risk being left behind in an increasingly online-driven world.
Limited connectivity could hinder education, business expansion, and access to essential government services, further widening the development gap between regions.
As the government and private sector push forward with Kenya’s digital transformation, stakeholders emphasize the need to ensure equitable access across all regions.
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