CS Eliud Owalo, on Saturday, July 29, led the Kenya Kwanza government in launching free Wi-Fi in Homabay and Siaya counties.
By launching the free service, the ICT CS, fulfilled one of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s campaign promises. This move mainly aims to expand the country’s ICT infrastructure. It is also geared to empower Kenyans with essential digital skills for the future of work.
During the launch event at Asumbi Girls High School, CS Owalo expressed his commitment to connect more areas in the region to the Internet. He also emphasized the significance of digital skills in enhancing the capabilities of Kenyans.
The CS also added that the connectivity will prepare Kenyans for various employment opportunities.
“We are determined to establish digital laboratories in every ward. This will enable people in villages to acquire essential digital skills,” announced CS Owalo.
Additionally, the ministry plans to deploy a total of 25,000 Wi-Fi hubs nationwide. According to the CS, markets and bus termini will be given top priority.
The CS stressed that this initiative would be a game-changer in addressing the shifting employment landscape. He added that this venture would reduce the unemployment rate in the country.
CS Owalo further encouraged young people to seize the opportunities presented by the digital space. He urged them to register for training programs to gain the necessary technical expertise for online employment.
To implement the project, the government will collaborate with tech giant Google and local telecom providers to commission the Wi-Fi hotspots. Other counties have already been connected to the free Wi-Fi network as part of this ongoing project.
Kenya is renowned as one of the leading tech hubs in the region. The Kenya Kwanza administration remains committed to providing last-mile connectivity to major urban centers across all counties.
CS Owalo highlighted the ICT ministry’s comprehensive blueprint, ensuring that every part of the country becomes accessible to the Internet.
This move is set to bridge the digital divide, empower citizens with essential digital skills, and open up new opportunities for economic growth and development in Kenya.
