The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) plans to use Ksh5 billion from the Universal Service Fund (USF) to connect 19 counties to Fibre optic cable connectivity over the next three years.
The USF was established through the Kenya Communications (Amendment) Act, 2009 and is managed by the CA. The Fund’s role is to accelerate access to ICT services across Kenya and is funded by levies on mobile network operators, appropriations from the government, grants, and donations.
The project is in line with the USF’s objective of facilitating infrastructure and communications services in unserved and underserved areas, and the targeted counties include Turkana, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Kwale, Kitui, Laikipia, Isiolo, Garissa, Wajir, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, and Narok.
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The project supports the government’s plan to deploy 100,000 kilometers of optic fibre to enhance broadband access across the country.
The CA Director General, Mr. Ezra Chiloba, stated that the project is “phenomenal and will greatly transform the country in the years to come.”
In addition, the ICTA Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Kamanguya, hailed the partnership with the CA, saying that it will go a long way in attaining the digital transformation agenda.
The government’s digitization plan aims to bring at least 80% of all government services online to ease service delivery, and the project will play a critical role in enhancing revenue collection via the automation of VAT systems.
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