Government to roll out 100,000km of fiber optic cable, 25,000 digital hotspots

Kenya will expand its digital infrastructure through the installation of 100,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable and the establishment of 25,000 public digital hotspots.

Information, Communication, and Digital Economy CS William Kabogo said this will boost internet connectivity, bridge the digital divide, and support access to e-government services, online learning, innovation, and digital entrepreneurship.

Speaking at Belgut Technical Training Institute, Kabogo said priority will be given to underserved rural and semi-urban areas to ensure inclusive access to reliable and affordable internet.

“The programme will prioritise underserved rural and semi-urban areas to ensure inclusive access to reliable and affordable internet services,” he said.

Kabogo noted that the project will not only create thousands of jobs during the installation phase but also unlock opportunities in education, healthcare, agriculture, and commerce once fully operational.

“As a Ministry, our focus remains clear, expand connectivity, scale up digital skills, and increase access to affordable devices so that no community, urban or rural, is left behind,” he added.

Belgut MP Nelson Koech welcomed the government’s efforts, announcing that his office will establish five digital hubs across the constituency through NG-CDF funding.

He said the centres would provide youth with ICT training and opportunities to earn a living through the digital space.

“The aim is to equip the youth with ICT skills and enable them to use the digital space to earn a living,” said Koech.

Belgut TTI Principal Bernard Korir said that the institute has already embraced the Digital Superhighway agenda through its Youth Digital Empowerment Programme, which has equipped students with digital skills and connected them with industry leaders.