Ruto Announces Kenya Power Deal for Nationwide Fibre Internet Access

President Ruto has disclosed a new agreement between the government and Kenya Power regarding internet access.

During his address at the Kinango Technical and Vocational College in Kwale County on Saturday, July 27, Ruto revealed that the Kenyan government has contracted Kenya Power to deliver high-speed fibre internet to technical training institutions nationwide. This ambitious project extends beyond educational institutions with plans to provide internet access to various wards across the country. The initiative aligns with the government's digital hubs plan which is being implemented in collaboration with Members of Parliament.

President Ruto emphasizes the significance of this endeavour, revealing that the government had allocated Sh10 billion for the plan. Ruto lauds the contract as a testament to his administration's commitment to expanding digital infrastructure and empowering the youth through technology. The concept of utilizing Kenya Power's existing infrastructure for internet delivery was first proposed in March by former ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo. This innovative approach aims to streamline the process of internet expansion by leveraging the power utility's extensive network, eliminating the need for costly and disruptive trench digging.

This strategic shift is expected to yield substantial cost savings for the government. According to the ICT Ministry, the expense of laying fibre optic cables using Kenya Power's infrastructure is significantly lower than traditional methods. The government anticipates paying Sh300,000 per kilometre of cable, a reduction from the previous cost of Sh2.3 million per kilometre. This cost-effective approach is projected to save the government approximately Sh200 billion. Kenya Power's vast power transmission and distribution network, spanning over 4,000 kilometres, will serve as the backbone for this ambitious project.

The company's experience in the fibre optic business since 2010, coupled with its existing partnerships with major telecommunications operators positions it as an ideal partner for the government's digital connectivity initiative. Once operational, the digital hubs are expected to provide free digital skills training to up to 1,500 youths annually in each ward. This initiative aims to address the high youth unemployment rate by equipping young Kenyans with the skills necessary to thrive in the digital economy.