Telkom Kenya will be providing free wireless internet access in select parts of Nairobi. The project, which is has been done in partnership with Nairobi County Government and Meelin Media Limited promises to offer secure access to internet services to cut the connectivity gap.
Christened Link Kenya Project, the service will be available in three spots within the CBD: Aga Khan Walk, Memorial Park, and Ambassador. The locations have been equipped with double-sided 55” LCD displays that will show paid ads to run and support the product.
Telkom has developed a similar initiative across the country where it has played a critical role in facilitating connectivity to innovation hubs in all constituencies. The program is aligned to the nation’s digitization agenda that targets to turn Kenya into a digital economy.
“This initiative is a boost to the government’s efforts to bridge existing gaps in internet connectivity. Whereas internet penetration has grown over the last few years, thanks to the mobile phone, sections of the population still cannot enjoy it owing to prohibitive costs” Said Kris Senanu – Managing Director, Telkom Enterprise.
“We are continually working to connect people who keep Kenya on the move. This is at the core of our vision as a company. It is the reason we have the most unbeatable offers on data in Kenya today, and the Link Kenya Project enables us to facilitate internet access to even more people in Nairobi.”
“This is the first of many initiatives to bridge the connectivity gap in the cities and major towns in Kenya. Ultimately, we’re looking at connecting people easily and for free, for a better urban experience,” adds the Managing Director of Meelin, Davis Nyamari.
Lastly, it is worth noting that the project is based on a similar initiative that was installed in New York City in 2015 named LinkNYC where people can get access to fast and secure public Wi-Fi in the American Eastside city.
