KENYA LAUNCHES SH40 BILLION DRIVE TO ACHIEVE FULL DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY BY 2027

These developments are expected to unlock vast socioeconomic opportunities by increasing digital access and usage across all sectors.

Kenya Digital connectivity Communication Ict Africa Digital transformation.

Director General, Communications Authority of Kenya, David Mugonyi

The government has rolled out a bold Sh40 billion strategy aimed at achieving 100 per cent digital connectivity across the country by 2027, marking a significant leap toward bridging the digital divide and positioning Kenya as a digital economy leader in the region.

The five-year plan, spearheaded by the Communications Authority (CA) through the Universal Service Fund (USF) 2023–2027, was unveiled as part of the Government Digital Transformation Agenda (GoDTA). It builds on earlier successes that brought mobile network coverage to 177 previously unserved sub-locations, broadband to 886 secondary schools, and internet connectivity to 56 public libraries.

The new strategy outlines the rollout of an additional 100,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable, the installation of 25,000 public WiFi hotspots, and the establishment of 1,450 digital village smart hubs and three national data centres. These developments are expected to unlock vast socioeconomic opportunities by increasing digital access and usage across all sectors.

CA Director General David Mugonyi said the strategy is designed to address the remaining ICT access gaps and maximise the benefits of technology for all Kenyans.

“The strategy is also mindful of the need for the application of a 'whole of society approach' in the implementation of the identified interventions in the context of the overall country’s strategic vision and mission,” Mugonyi said.

The plan targets three main areas: expanding digital infrastructure and services, developing digital skills and local content, and enhancing institutional capacity to implement and manage ICT projects effectively.

Under the infrastructure and services component, the strategy prioritises accessibility, availability, and affordability of services such as voice, data, broadcasting, postal, and courier services. It also aims to enhance e-Government services and digital inclusion.

However, the strategy faces a Sh12 billion funding shortfall. Mugonyi appealed to development partners and donors to support the vision, noting that while the Sh40 billion plan is comprehensive, not all the funding is currently secured.

“When you see a figure there, it doesn’t mean the money is available. Whatever you have seen is a dream, a wish list,” he said.

Traditionally, the CA raises funds through contributions from its licensees. To bridge the gap, the authority plans to engage in joint project financing, attract donor grants, and reinvest funds from licensees as seed capital.

In support of the initiative, the CA will directly fund the rollout of 2,500 kilometres of fibre in underserved areas to extend access to essential services.

CA Chairperson Mary Mungai highlighted the tangible impact of ICT in communities across the country, noting that the last five years have shown how transformative connectivity can be.

“Over the last five years, during which we have been implementing the USF, we have witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of ICTs on communities and individuals in hitherto inconceivable ways.” She said.

With the government’s digital agenda gaining momentum, the strategy is expected to play a critical role in building a connected, inclusive, and innovative nation.

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KENYA LAUNCHES SH40 BILLION DRIVE TO ACHIEVE FULL DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY BY 2027

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