Nairobi — Kenya has officially launched its broadband mapping system as part of the Africa Broadband Mapping Systems (Africa-BB-Maps) programme, a continental initiative supported by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the European Union (EU). Covering 11 Sub-Saharan African countries including Kenya, the project aims to harmonize broadband mapping systems across the region to guide policy, investment, and infrastructure development.
The system will help identify coverage gaps, optimize connectivity strategies, and support socio-economic planning by linking broadband data to critical sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, commerce, and governance.
David Mugonyi, Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), emphasized its impact: “The ability to link broadband mapping to socio-economic planning will allow us to prioritise connectivity for economic zones, health facilities, agricultural hubs, and community centres, directly improving outcomes across key sectors.”
Stephen Isaboke, Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, called the tool a “game changer”, citing its role in delivering data-driven insights into infrastructure, service quality, affordability, and investment needs.
The EU, which has committed €15 million to the project, reaffirmed its support. Ambassador Henriette Geiger said the Africa-BB-Maps initiative will help enhance broadband access, foster digital inclusion, and advance equitable growth across the continent.
With this launch, Kenya begins operational participation in Africa-BB-Maps, joining governments, private sector players, and development partners in building a coordinated, data-driven approach to universal digital connectivity.
