Back in January, the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of ICT Mr. Joe Mucheru revealed that Members of Parliament, together with the National Government Constituencies Development Fund Board (NG-CDF Board) were to set up 4 innovation hubs in each of the 290 constituencies.
The total number of the planned hubs is 1160, and each will be equipped with WiFi and 40 tablets for those without personal devices. In that opinion piece by the CS, it was noted that the ministry, in conjunction with the Ajira Initiative purposed to render a digital platform for the youth across all constituencies to explore economic opportunities.
The initiative is coming to actualization as of today as notified via press release by Telkom Kenya Limited. In essence, the company has been contracted to roll out free WiFi and the installation of the incubation hubs.
In particular, the Ministry of ICT will fund the provision of Internet broadband services for a 12-month period, while NG-CDF will ensure the supply and installation of equipment and any other relevant services.
The Managing Director of the Enterprise Division of Telkom Kenya Limited, Mr. Kris Senanu applauded the inclusion of the company in providing these services as it demonstrates the confidence accorded to its mandate of meeting Kenya’s broadband goals. Furthermore, he echoed the goals of the project in developing ICT skills and applications for the young population toward giving them a level playing field in starting new businesses. In addition, he stressed on the capabilities of Telkom Kenya in meeting telecommunication needs for the public.
“We are excited about the roll-out of this new government project. As a strategic partner to the Kenya government’s national ICT agenda, Telkom Kenya is able to provide end-to-end solutions, tailor-made to meet a growing set of needs for the Public Sector,” says Mr. Senanu.
On a larger picture, the contract will augment the company’s stand and mission in gaining ground in Internet services at a time when the country is on a path toward boosting connectivity options as well as building an economy that is based on knowledge.
