The Kenyan government has taken a significant step towards connecting distant and underprivileged parts of the country. Recently, they launched a public Wi-Fi service at Moi Gardens in Kericho Town, spearheaded by ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo. This initiative adds to the 17 other hotspots already operational across the nation, including Nairobi, Nyeri, Bondo, Ahero, and Kapsabet.
With plans to deploy 25,000 hotspots by 2027, the government aims to reach people in markets, schools, and various sectors of the Kenyan economy. Collaborating with Google and local telecommunications providers, they are also laying 100,000 kilometers of fiber-optic cable to ensure nationwide ICT access. The overarching goal is to stimulate social and economic activities, thereby advancing the national economy.
This ambitious project is poised to catalyze a digital revolution, particularly in rural areas. Access to the internet will empower individuals to engage in online marketing, advertising, and sales effortlessly, potentially expanding economic opportunities for small enterprises and fostering overall growth.
ICT Cabinet Secretary Owalo encourages youth to leverage these digital initiatives, offering avenues for online employment such as content writing, transcription, affiliate marketing, and product reviews.
Owalo emphasized, “Every year for the next five years, the government will launch 5,000 Wi-Fi hotspots in all counties, ensuring accessibility for all Kenyans.”
In tandem with Wi-Fi deployment, the government is digitizing all government services and records, starting with the Ministry of Lands. This transition aims to streamline operations, eliminate paperwork, and enhance user-friendliness for citizens.