NAIROBI, Kenya- The Parliamentary Committee on Communication, Innovation, and Information is opening doors for fresh internet service providers, a move that has sparked excitement among consumers and concerns among industry incumbents.
Led by Dagoretti South MP, John Kiarie, the committee expressed support for the entry of new players like US-based Starlink but underscored the importance of ensuring consumer protection and legal compliance.
The much-anticipated entry of Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet provider, has raised eyebrows, particularly with Kenya’s telecom giant Safaricom.
The local leader in the internet market has warned that the new competition could disrupt the sector. However, Kiarie remains optimistic, emphasizing that competition will benefit Kenyans by driving down internet costs and improving service quality.
Speaking at a press briefing in Naivasha, Kiarie stated, “Competition is healthy, as consumers end up benefiting from better services and lower internet rates, and innovation brings with it disruption.”
He also reassured that all new entrants, including Starlink, will be vetted to ensure compliance with Kenyan laws and regulations regarding consumer rights and data protection.
The committee is keen to ensure a level playing field in the internet sector, particularly in the context of modernizing outdated ICT regulations that hinder development. This, Kiarie noted, is crucial for ensuring the sector keeps pace with technological advances.
In a bid to boost digital literacy and bridge the digital divide, the Kenyan government is also pressing ahead with its plan to roll out 1,450 digital hubs across the country.
These hubs will be developed through a partnership between the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) and the Ministry of ICT. According to Kiarie, the hubs are expected to revolutionize internet access, particularly in underserved areas.
Nominated MP Irene Nyakerario echoed this sentiment, describing the hubs as a “game changer” for empowering unemployed youth with digital skills.
The initiative aims to bring free internet access and digital learning resources to rural communities, helping them leverage the internet for economic opportunities.
The private sector is also stepping up to support the government’s efforts in expanding internet access.
Huawei, a key partner in Kenya’s ICT sector, has already connected 30 schools to free internet as part of its digital learning initiative. Six of these schools cater to special needs students, ensuring that all learners, regardless of background, can benefit from digital resources.
Engineer Maureen Mwaniki from Huawei highlighted this partnership, stating, “This is part of digital learning as part of improving learning.” The initiative is a reflection of the growing public-private partnerships aimed at enhancing Kenya’s digital infrastructure and boosting educational outcomes.
Fiona Asonga, CEO of the Technology Service Providers Association of Kenya (TESPOK), also emphasized the importance of revising archaic ICT laws to better serve Kenya’s evolving digital landscape.
A review of outdated policies, she noted, is essential for fostering innovation and ensuring the country remains competitive in the global digital economy.
