CA, ICTA sign Sh5Bn deal to build fiber optic network in19 counties

By Victor MUJIDU

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) and the ICT Authority (ICTA) on Monday signed an agreement on the deployment of last-mile fiber optic cable connectivity across 19 unserved and underserved Counties.

The Technical Cooperation Agreement (TCA) will see the CA support the deployment of fiber in the identified Counties at a cost of Sh5 billion through the Universal Service Fund (USF) – whose purpose is to  is to support widespread access to ICT services, promote capacity building and innovation in ICT services in the country.

The sources of the Fund include levies on licensees, appropriations from Government as well as grants and donations. The Fund, currently being put in place, is expected to finance national projects that have significant impact on the availability and accessibility of ICTs in rural, remote and poor urban areas.

The project supports the Government Digital Transformation Agenda (GoDTA) on the deployment of 100,000 kilometers of fiber, as part of efforts to enhance access to broadband across the country.

The Counties targeted in this project 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.

‘‘What we are doing today is phenomenal and will greatly transform the country in the years to come,’’ said CA Director General Ezra Chiloba at the signing ceremony.

ICTA Chief Executive Officer Stanley Kamanguya hailed the partnership with CA which will go a long way in the attainment of the digital transformation agenda. ‘‘It is an interesting time to begin the 100,000-kilometre journey,’’ he observed.

The Project shall be implemented within a maximum period of three (3) years. The agreement gives effect to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the two institutions in December 2022.