Kenya’s Communications Authority has launched a KSh 40 billion ($300 million) Universal Service Fund strategy to extend digital infrastructure and internet access to underserved communities across the country.
The USF Strategy 2023-2027 sets out plans to roll out 100,000 kilometres of fibre-optic cable, establish 25,000 public Wi-Fi hotspots, and build 1,450 ICT hubs, one in every ward nationwide. The strategy supports the government’s Digital and Creative Economy Pillar under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
What the fund has achieved so far
Since the fund began disbursing in 2017, it has connected nearly 800,000 people in underserved areas, provided broadband to 886 secondary schools, converted 56 public libraries into digital resource centres, and connected 42 law courts to digital networks.
“Through the Fund, we have connected nearly 800,000 people in underserved areas,” said CA Director General David Mugonyi. “The question is not whether we should act, but how we can act strategically, efficiently, and sustainably.”
Next phase
The next phase includes laying 2,500 kilometres of fibre in 19 underserved counties through partnerships with Kenya Power, ICT Authority, and Konza Technopolis. The Authority also plans 47 Centres of Excellence and 1,450 ICT hubs to expand last-mile connectivity.
Beyond infrastructure, the strategy targets digitisation across education, agriculture, justice, and health. The Authority acknowledged persistent challenges, including the cost of devices, limited digital skills, and connectivity gaps in marginalised regions.
“The digital future we envision cannot be built by government alone,” said CA board chairperson Mary Mungai. “It requires a collaborative effort to ensure every Kenyan can connect, learn, grow, and thrive in the digital economy.”
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