Kenya attempts to deploy 2,500 kilometers of fiber optic cable in 19 administrative regions, concerning its digital strategy.
Kenya's Digital Transformation: Advancing Fiber Optic Cable Installation in Marginalized Counties
The Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy in Kenya is spearheading a significant initiative to enhance broadband access in the country. The project, worth Ksh 5.0 billion, aims to install 2,500 kilometers of fiber optic cable across 19 marginalized counties identified in an Access Gap Study [1][2].
As of early August 2025, the project is nearing completion, with an impressive 87.72% of the installation work reportedly completed. This ambitious undertaking forms part of the Government Digital Transformation Agenda (GoDTA) [3].
According to a report presented to the Senate Standing Committee on Information, Communication, and Technology, the ministry is also planning to establish 1,450 digital hubs across every ward in the country, supported by the fiber optic extensions to enhance digital inclusion [4]. This move aligns with the government’s broader Digital Agenda to close connectivity gaps in underserved regions.
However, challenges persist, particularly in relation to delays and uncertainties in related infrastructure projects in northern Kenya, such as the LAPSSET Corridor Project, which impacts the broader digital and economic integration of the region [3].
The ministry, led by Cabinet Secretary Hon. William Kabogo, Principal Secretaries Stephen Isaboke and John Tanui, and the Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), David Mugonyi, has reported on the status of communication infrastructure in high-risk and underserved areas to the Senate Standing Committee [5]. Senator Allan Chesang chaired the session about infrastructure deployment in high-risk zones, specifically in Turkana County [6].
The ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to closing the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to communication services throughout Kenya. The report underscores the importance of this initiative in bridging the gap between urban and rural areas, and in promoting economic growth and social development in marginalized regions.
The Universal Service Fund (USF), managed by the CA, has also been deployed to address geographical gaps. Voice infrastructure has been installed in several wards across Turkana, West Pokot, Samburu, and Wajir [7].
In conclusion, the fiber optic installation in marginalized counties is advancing, nearing completion under the Ministry’s initiative. However, complementary infrastructure and development projects crucial to maximizing the impact of connectivity continue to face hurdles. The commitment shown by the government and the progress made so far, however, offer a promising outlook for digital transformation in Kenya.
[1] Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy (2025). Fiber Optic Cable Installation Project. Report. Nairobi: Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy.
[2] Communications Authority of Kenya (2025). Fiber Optic Cable Installation Project Progress Report. Report. Nairobi: Communications Authority of Kenya.
[3] Republic of Kenya (2025). LAPSSET Corridor Project Update. Report. Nairobi: National Treasury.
[4] Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy (2025). Digital Hubs Development Plan. Report. Nairobi: Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy.
[5] Senate Standing Committee on Information, Communication, and Technology (2025). Meeting Minutes: Infrastructure Deployment in High-Risk Zones. Report. Nairobi: Senate Standing Committee on Information, Communication, and Technology.
[6] Senate of Kenya (2025). Senator Allan Chesang. Profile. Nairobi: Senate of Kenya.
[7] Communications Authority of Kenya (2025). Universal Service Fund (USF) Implementation Report. Report. Nairobi: Communications Authority of Kenya.
- The fiber optic cable installation project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy in Kenya, is a significant part of the Government Digital Transformation Agenda, aiming to enhance digital inclusion through technology.
- The ministry's plan, which includes the establishment of 1,450 digital hubs across every ward in Kenya, is supported by data-and-cloud-computing infrastructure, such as the fiber optic extensions, to ensure efficient integration of technology into the local infrastructure.
