The Government of Kenya, in partnership with the World Bank, is advancing plans to expand fiber optic connectivity across the country and at its borders, building on the momentum from the successful rollout of the first phase of the Eastern Africa Regional Transport, Trade and Development Facilitation Project (EARTTDFP). This initial phase spans Eldoret to Nadapal-Nakodok, along the South Sudan border.

Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, Eng. John Tanui, praised the World Bank for its strong collaboration in delivering key projects across the ICT, infrastructure, and energy sectors. He made these remarks during an introductory meeting with Mr. Binyam Reja, the newly appointed World Bank Practice Manager for Transport Global Practice in Eastern Africa, held at the Ministry’s headquarters.

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Eng. Tanui, accompanied by ICT Authority CEO, Stanley Kamanguya, highlighted that the 730-km fiber rollout under the EARTTDFP is catalyzing development in Kenya’s northwestern counties, including Uasin Gishu, Kakamega, Trans Nzoia, West Pokot, and Turkana. It has led to the installation of 193 subscriber sites along the corridor, serving schools, government institutions, health facilities, and providing public WiFi in key marketplaces.

The meeting also addressed the ongoing Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HoAGDP), which aims to further extend connectivity. This initiative will span counties including Isiolo, Meru, Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera, enhancing regional integration with Ethiopia and Somalia. The project entails laying 740 km of fiber optic cable along the Isiolo-Mandera Corridor, plus an additional 200 km in metro areas and last-mile connections to public institutions.

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Eng. Tanui reaffirmed the State Department’s commitment—alongside the ICTA, Konza Technopolis Development Authority, and other agencies—to partnering with the World Bank and private sector players in achieving digital infrastructure goals.

Other key attendees included World Bank Lead Transport Specialist, Mr. Josphat Sasia; Senior Transport Specialist, Ms. Susan Owuor; ICTA Director for Programmes and Standards, Mr. Thomas Bwaley; and ICT Secretary for Infrastructure, Mr. Washington Okoth.

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