Kenya and Tanzania have launched the Terrestrial Fiber Link connecting Dar-es-Salaam to Mombasa in a strategic cross-border project with the goal of enhancing digital connectivity and communication across East Africa.
At a launch event at the Lunga Lunga-Horoho border, Kenya’s ICT Cabinet Secretary, William Kabogo, reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to a digitally linked Africa, describing the project as a means to support job creation, innovation and infrastructure development.
“Kenya remains firmly committed to building a connected and digitally empowered Africa. An Africa that creates jobs, fosters innovation, and strengthens infrastructure through strategic regional collaboration,” he stated.
The initiative, led by Kenya’s ICT Authority (ICTA) and Tanzania Telecommunications Corporation (TTLC), is designed to bring in high-speed internet connection while promoting regional e-commerce between the two countries.
CS Kabogo’s Tanzanian counterpart, Jerry William Silaa, added to the sentiment, highlighting the importance of system interoperability as the fiber link is aimed at ensuring digital cooperation between Kenya and Tanzania.
Kenya’s ICT Principal Secretary Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui described the project as a vital achievement in connecting the two nations laying the foundation for robust, reliable digital infrastructure across the region.
ICT Authority Ag. CEO Zilpher Owiti announced the successful deployment of 130 kilometers of high-capacity fiber between Mombasa and Horohoro, effectively linking Kenya’s core fiber infrastructure to the Tanzanian border.
Owiti highlighted Kenya’s offer of discounted fiber leasing rates to Tanzania, a strategic move intended to lower internet costs and bridge the digital divide, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
She further emphasized the project’s alignment with Kenya’s Digital Transformation Agenda and the broader African Union’s Agenda 2063.
The project is expected to bring in new opportunities for cross-border trade, streamline public services and speed up East Africa’s goals towards digital transformation.
