Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy William Kabogo has launched a 106 Kilometers of fiber optic link for internet connectivity to serve remotes parts of Baringo County.
Speaking in Kabartonjo town during the official launch of internet services for Baringo North and Central Sub Counties, Kabogo noted that the backbone link from Emining-Marigat-Kabarnet-Kabartonjo will boost digital connectivity in the area which has been suffering poor voice and internet since independence.
The CS accompanied by ICT Principal Secretary Eng. John Tanui, Governor Benjamin Cheboi, County commissioner Stephen Kutwa, Baringo North Member of Parliament Joseph Makilap amongst other leaders said the initiative is a vital step towards digital inclusion.
He noted that the vast area should strive towards rapidly expanding fibre network which is key for driving economic growth and bridging the digital divide.
Kabogo encouraged the youth to take advantage of internet accessibility by venturing into digital opportunities for their economic growth. “The internet connectivity is crucial for our youth who benefit by getting employment opportunities and in turn earn their incomes there,” he said.
The CS said the connectivity will also aid in improving public services across the county so that residents can access them with ease.
He exuded confidence in the Kenya Kwanza administration which he noted has made a major milestone in the digital economy which is a key driver of socio-economic development in the country.
PS Tanui noted that the department has already connected 46 public institutions with internet and 186 more are expected to be connected using a new model which they are working in collaboration with Kenya power to reach out to major towns and trading centers.
He assured residents of Baringo that the vast county will not be left out in internet connectivity which is a transformative project.
Makilap in his remarks lauded the government for the crucial technology which he noted is often ignored by residents.
He called for the internet connectivity to be extended to nearby institutions of higher learning within the area in order to aid learning.
by Benson Kelio and Christopher Kiprop
