Residents of Kuria East sub-county in Migori County, particularly those living in Ntimaru and other bordering centers, are grappling with unstable network coverage that has severely impacted their daily lives and businesses. Citizens have voiced their frustrations, calling on the government to urgently address the issue and improve connectivity in the area.
The lack of reliable network coverage in Kuria East has not only affected personal communication but has also taken a toll on local businesses. Traders in Ntimaru have expressed their frustrations, highlighting how the network instability has led to significant financial losses. “There was a time I was selling goods at the market when suddenly I received a message on my phone welcoming me to a neighboring country, yet I am right here in Kenya,” said Wangoi Munene, a trader in Ntimaru. Such incidents are common for residents living near the border, as their devices often latch onto networks from neighboring countries due to the poor local signal.
John Ndegwa, a veterinary officer based in Ntimaru, also shared his challenges. “I am often forced to walk for several miles from my office just to find a spot with reliable network so that I can communicate with my clients,” he lamented. For professionals like Ndegwa, whose work depends heavily on communication, the unstable network coverage disrupts service delivery and hampers business operations. The veterinary officer’s experience is a reflection of the broader issues faced by many in the area, where simple tasks like making phone calls or sending text messages become major challenges.
Residents of Kuria East are particularly affected in areas such as Ntimaru, Motemorabu, Gukipimo, Isebania, Taragwiti, and other small bordering towns. The lack of a stable network has left these communities feeling isolated, disconnected, and frustrated. Local traders and business owners have highlighted the economic impact, with lost sales and missed opportunities due to poor communication infrastructure. The unreliable network has also affected residents’ ability to access essential services, as many rely on their phones to contact health professionals, emergency services, and other critical support systems.
The poor network coverage in Kuria East is not a new issue, but residents are now demanding that the government takes decisive action. They are calling for the installation of more cell towers and other infrastructure improvements to ensure stable network coverage throughout the sub-county. Improved connectivity is seen as a crucial step in enhancing business operations, boosting the local economy, and improving the overall quality of life for residents.
The frustrations of Kuria East residents are compounded by the fact that their region borders Tanzania, which sometimes results in phones picking up Tanzanian networks instead of Kenyan ones. This phenomenon, known as “signal spillover,” not only disrupts communication but can also lead to unexpected charges for cross-border roaming services, further inconveniencing the already struggling residents.
The residents’ plight has caught the attention of local leaders, who have echoed the calls for improved network coverage. They have urged the government to prioritize the installation of adequate communication infrastructure in border regions to prevent residents from being left in a communication black hole. Local leaders have emphasized that enhancing network coverage in Kuria East is not just about improving business operations, but also about ensuring that residents have access to critical services, information, and opportunities that can enhance their lives.
As the government continues to push for digital inclusion and the expansion of communication networks across the country, the residents of Kuria East hope that their calls for help will not go unanswered. The stability of network coverage in the area is seen as a vital component of development, with the potential to unlock economic growth, enhance service delivery, and improve the overall well-being of the community.
