The Kenyan government is engaged in discussions with county officials to waive wayleave fees charged to Internet Service Providers (ISPs) for fibre infrastructure. This move aims to expand connectivity nationwide.
Wayleaves grant ISPs rights to deploy fibre cables and other infrastructure along public paths. However, associated fees levied by counties can deter network growth, according to ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo.
Owalo stated that digital infrastructure enables critical services on par with water and power. “A house design will not be complete in this digital era if there is no provision for fibre connectivity,” remarked Owalo at the recent Conext East Africa Digital Infrastructure Summit.
The new administration seeks public-private partnerships to enhance nationwide connectivity. Consultations are underway with the Council of Governors regarding excessive wayleave charges.
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“In cases where there is sharing of infrastructure with several service providers, county governments should be persuaded not to charge for wayleaves more than once,” Owalo explained.
While standards must be upheld, Chris Kemei of the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) noted counties should focus on the benefits of better connectivity over revenue extraction from ISPs.
Properly restored pathways and adherence to deployment guidelines were cited as priorities. Waiving select fees could accelerate growth without major county budget impacts.
Expanded digital infrastructure creates opportunities for citizens, businesses and government entities within counties. Thus, balancing collection objectives with enablement of new services is prudent.
Owalo asserted the new administration is determined to close the digital divide between urban and rural areas through reforms like wayleave fee waivers. Partnerships between the national and county governments combined with ISP investments can help achieve universal, affordable internet access.
