Sh6billion to lay fibre optic cable in Kenya's 47 counties, says CS Fred Matiang'i

The Government is working on a Sh6 billion project to ensure all counties benefit from the phase two fibre-optic cable before the end of 2015.

Speaking at Gikuuri, Embu during a tour of the project, ICT Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang'i said the project will bring connectivity thus enhance delivery of services to citizens at their locations.

The CS said when fully implemented, the project will cover 2,100 kilometres in all the 47 county headquarters and will provide network coverage for the connected areas.

Matiang'i said the project, jointly funded by the Government and a loan from the Chinese government, is expected to ease communication across the counties as well as create numerous opportunities for Kenyans.

TAXPAYERS MONEY

"Kenyans should be aware that taxpayers money is being used on this project. They should be its custodians and report vandals to relevant authorities. The pipes have GoK rubbers stamps on them hence the stolen ones will be recovered easily," he said.

Matiang'i ordered the contractor, Huawei Technologies, to ensure they work with local youth in the areas where the line passes.

The CS said the project will be officially launched on Friday at Makueni.

Embu Governor Martin Wambora said the connectivity will enable students to study courses at distant universities from the comfort of their homes and also create job opportunities.

He said the county government is going to establish internet hotspots in public places at Embu town to further bring ICT closer to the people.

FAST CONNECTIVITY

Senator Lenny Kivuti asked the Government to extend the fibre optic cable to Embu University College and Kenya Anglican University so as to give students and lecturers an edge on ICT-related matters.

He said Runyenjes MP Cecily Mbarire, who was not present at the meeting, had sent a message pledging to use CDF and ensure all schools near the fibre optic cable are connected.

Once the project is complete, it is expected to offer high speed internet access and reliable connectivity to national government systems.

The cable will also provide users with the unified communication system capability where voice and data are linked in one network.