Likuyani Constituency in Kakamega County is set to benefit from free internet access through a collaborative project between Japan and Kenyatta University. This forward-thinking endeavor promises to revolutionize the digital landscape of the region, bringing significant economic and social benefits to its residents.
The project was officially launched in a ceremony attended by notable dignitaries, including the area Member of Parliament, Hon. Innocent Mugabe, and Professor Joseph Muliro of Kenyatta University. It was emphasized that the initiative aims to provide high-speed internet access to schools, hospitals, and other public institutions, thereby facilitating a range of digital activities and services.
“We’re putting up a digital center at our headquarters and across the wards,” Hon. Mugabe announced. “This particular platform will help a big deal to provide high-speed internet that our young people will use to do their innovations and also enable them to do online jobs in line with the current government policy.”
The installation of digital centers throughout Likuyani is set to create a robust infrastructure that will support the community’s digital needs. The provision of free internet access will not only enhance educational opportunities for students but also improve healthcare services through better connectivity and access to information. Schools and hospitals stand to gain immensely from this initiative, enabling them to leverage technology for better service delivery.
Professor Joseph Muliro highlighted the role of Kenyatta University in ensuring the successful implementation and sustainability of the project. “We are coming in to ensure that technology sits well here in Likuyani and in Kenya,” he said. “Our commitment extends beyond the provision of internet connectivity; we will also offer capacity building and skillset development needed for knowledge transfer.”
This holistic approach aims to equip residents with the necessary skills to harness the power of the internet effectively. The free internet initiative aligns with the Kenyan government’s broader strategy to promote digital inclusion and economic growth. By providing residents with access to high-speed internet, the project is expected to open up new opportunities for online jobs, remote work, and digital entrepreneurship. Young people, in particular, stand to benefit from the ability to engage in online innovation and pursue digital careers.
Moreover, the enhanced connectivity will streamline processes such as university applications, making higher education more accessible to students in the region.
