Kenya unveils Africa broadband mapping project to bridge digital divide

WENDY SHEILLA -KNA

Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to bridging the digital divide with the launch of the Africa Broadband Mapping Systems Project (BPMAPS), a continental initiative aimed at enhancing data-driven planning and investment in digital infrastructure.

The launch, held in Nairobi, was presided over by Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Stephen Isaboke.

The PS praised the partnership between the Government of Kenya, the European Union (EU), the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), and the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).

Isaboke noted that the initiative marks a significant milestone not only for Kenya but also for the wider region and the continent, given its potential to transform Africa’s digital future.

He emphasized that broadband connectivity is no longer a luxury but a necessity, describing it as a critical driver of socio-economic transformation that powers innovation, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion.

“The government has placed broadband connectivity at the core of the National Digital Masterplan and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

"We are committed to ensuring that no community is left behind in accessing the opportunities brought about by digitalization,” affirmed the PS.

Speaking at the event, Communications Authority of Kenya Director General (DG), David Mugonyi, underscored the importance of broadband in accelerating national growth portraying broadband as the engine of economic growth, social inclusion and national resilience.

“Anyone standing in the way of digital transformation is an enemy of progress. For too long, Africa’s greatest enemy has been the digital divide, and we must confront it with data and action,” Mugonyi remarked.