Kenya has officially unveiled its broadband mapping system as part of the Africa Broadband Mapping Systems (Africa-BB-Maps) initiative. This continental project, backed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the European Union (EU), aims to standardise broadband mapping across 11 Sub-Saharan African nations, including Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Eswatini, Malawi, Nigeria, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and Kenya.
The initiative is designed to support policymaking, close connectivity gaps, and encourage strategic investments in digital infrastructure throughout the region.
During the launch event, David Mugonyi, Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), stated that this system will enhance ongoing connectivity efforts, legislative measures, and regulatory initiatives to accelerate spectrum allocation, promote infrastructure sharing, and reduce connectivity costs.
“The ability to connect broadband mapping with socio-economic development will help us prioritise connectivity in economic zones, healthcare facilities, agricultural centres, and community hubs, ultimately enhancing education, health care, commerce, and governance,” said David Mugonyi, CA Director General.
Mugonyi also pointed out that the Africa-BB-Maps system will deliver the accuracy needed to address the digital divide, ensuring that every Kenyan can benefit from the digital age.
Stephen Isaboke, Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, called the system a “game changer,” emphasising its capacity to provide data-driven insights on broadband infrastructure, service quality, coverage gaps, and affordability.
“With harmonised, validated, and publicly accessible broadband maps, we will be able to make informed choices that optimise investments in infrastructure and guide policy decisions,” stated Stephen Isaboke.
European Union Ambassador to Kenya, Henriette Geiger, reiterated the EU’s commitment to facilitating Kenya’s digital transformation, highlighting that the EU-funded Africa BB-Maps project, with a budget of €15 million, will bolster broadband connectivity, promoting inclusion, opportunity, and equitable development.
This launch signifies Kenya’s active involvement in the Africa-BB-Maps project, uniting government, private sector stakeholders, and development partners to enhance digital access for all.
