The Ministry of Information, Communication, and Technology has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative that is expected to save the government billions of shillings by partnering with Kenya Power to establish internet connectivity.
In an announcement by Energy Minister Davis Chirchir, Kenya Power will spearhead the installation of fiber optic cables to boost internet access. The ICT Ministry confirmed that these cables will be laid along Kenya Power’s existing infrastructure, with the government incurring a cost of Ksh300,000 per kilometer.
Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo emphasized that this approach, diverging from the traditional method of underground cable installation, will significantly reduce costs and the time needed for repairs. “We are currently spending about Ksh2.3 million to lay one kilometer of fiber optic cable but, through the arrangement with Kenya Power, this is poised to come down to Ksh300,000,” Owalo stated. The government anticipates saving at least Ksh200 billion from this project.
This initiative will be synchronized with the Last Mile Connectivity project, which aims to extend electricity to rural areas. According to CS Owalo, the government intends to ensure all ICT hubs, which will be established in each ward, are connected.
Owalo further revealed that these ICT hubs have already trained 149,000 youths for digital jobs. “We are going to set up digital hubs in all the wards across the country to enhance access to the free digital skills training program,” he said. Each digital hub is projected to train up to 1,500 youths annually.
This strategic move marks a significant step towards enhancing digital infrastructure and empowering Kenya’s youth through technology.
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