In a historic step toward digital integration throughout East Africa, Kenya and Tanzania have officially connected their national broadband networks via cross border fibre optic link. The terrestrial fibre link covers 130 kilometers from Mombasa, Kenya to Horohoro, the border town at the Tanzania border and is a critical component of the regional ICT backbone.
The project, co-implemented by Kenya’s ICT Authority and the Tanzania Telecommunications Corporation (TTCL) also advances the larger goal of a digital integration of East Africa. The connection of the National ICT Broadband Backbone (NICTBB) in Kenya with Tanzania’s national fibre optic network is boosting connectivity to cross border infrastructure and is creating possibilities for innovation and trade in digital services.
What Does the Fibre Link Aim to Achieve?
This project is aimed at lowering unit costs of the internet, especially in less developed and rural communities through Kenya’s provision of discounted fibre leasing rates to Tanzania. It is supportive of both countries digital agendas such as Kenya’s Digital Transformation Strategy as well as the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
According to Zilpher Owiti, Acting CEO of Kenya’s ICT Authority, this fibre link will help narrow the digital divide, among other things and unleash opportunities for SMEs, start-ups and youth enterprises in both countries.
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Why Is This Link a Game-Changer for East Africa?
The fibre connection will enhance broadband speed and reliability and improve cross border logistics, customs and digital trade. Kenya’s ICT Principal Secretary, Eng. John Tanui stated that the infrastructural investment was opening a new chapter for cross border digital engagement.
Tanzania’s Minister of Communication, Hon. Jerry Silaa and Kenya’s ICT Cabinet Secretary, Hon. William Kabogo both described the project as a major advance toward a “One Network Area” and digitally sovereign Africa.
