President William Ruto has announced the government’s plan to establish ICT hubs in every ward across Kenya. This ambitious initiative, aimed at bridging the digital divide and enhancing access to technology, will be funded through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and supported by Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) infrastructure.
During a town hall session with university students held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Sunday, President Ruto emphasized the importance of digital access for all citizens, particularly students. He revealed that discussions have already been held with Members of Parliament (MPs) who manage the CDF, and they have agreed to allocate funds towards setting up these ICT hubs.
“We have changed the law and if you talk to your MP, we are using CDF to build an ICT hub in every ward for three reasons: to make sure ICT infrastructure is available to citizens including students, we have a big programme on digital jobs, and we want to encourage digital commerce and make government services accessible in that space,” President Ruto stated.
This initiative is part of a broader government strategy to promote digital literacy, create opportunities for online employment, and facilitate e-commerce across the country. The ICT hubs will serve as centers where citizens can access the internet, government services, and educational resources, thus empowering them to participate in the digital economy.
One of the key aspects of this plan is the use of existing KPLC power lines to deliver free internet to citizens. President Ruto explained that by leveraging the extensive KPLC network, the government can ensure that internet access reaches even the most remote areas of the country. “Every place where we have Kenya Power lines, it will be possible to have internet. We have already rolled out that plan,” he added.
The initiative addresses the concerns raised by students and other citizens about the lack of reliable internet access in certain areas, particularly rural regions. By providing free internet through KPLC’s infrastructure, the government aims to level the playing field, ensuring that all Kenyans, regardless of their location, have the opportunity to benefit from digital services.
The President’s announcement comes at a time when the country is undergoing significant changes in its educational funding model. In response to questions about how students would access ICT services in areas with poor internet connectivity, President Ruto assured that the new ICT hubs would be pivotal in addressing these challenges.
Further, he elaborated on the recently introduced university funding model, which has sparked debate among stakeholders. The new model, which adjusts the allocation of funds based on students’ financial needs and the cost of their courses, has been met with concerns over the rising cost of university education.
President Ruto acknowledged these concerns but defended the model, stating that it is necessary to ensure the sustainability of higher education in the country. He mentioned that he has already engaged with university vice-chancellors, who have indicated that the model is functioning effectively. “The next step is for our administration to explain to the public why this model is necessary,” he said, highlighting the importance of transparency and public understanding in the implementation of new policies.
The establishment of ICT hubs in every ward is expected to complement the new funding model by providing students with access to the necessary digital resources, thereby enhancing the overall educational experience. With the government’s commitment to expanding digital infrastructure, President Ruto’s vision is to create an inclusive, technology-driven environment that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, and educational advancement.
This initiative marks a crucial step towards achieving the government’s goal of a digitally empowered society, where every Kenyan has the tools and opportunities to thrive in the digital age. As the plan is rolled out, it will be essential to monitor its impact on communities and ensure that the ICT hubs effectively meet the needs of all citizens, particularly the youth.
