Paul Kiage (c) Deputy Director, project development - universal Service Fund under the communication authority of Kenya.speaking in Eldoret
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has invested
about Sh6 billion in the installation of telecommunications infrastructure
across the country.
The move, officials say, has played a key role in improving
security and accelerating development in previously underserved regions.
Deputy Director for Project Development at the Universal Service
Fund (USF), Paul Kiage, said improved communication networks have significantly
enhanced security operations in the North Rift and northeastern regions.
Speaking during a media engagement forum in Eldoret, Kiage
said the authority has been working closely with security agencies to expand
connectivity in areas affected by insecurity, particularly those prone to
banditry.
“This collaboration has led to a noticeable reduction in
insecurity in previously underserved areas and has also helped to boost development
programmes,” Kiage said.
He noted that under the first phase of the USF rural
connectivity programme, 78 sub-locations were connected at a cost of Sh1.25
billion. The second phase covered 101 sub-locations at a cost of Sh1.1 billion.
In the third phase, the authority connected 68 sub-locations
in some of the country's most remote areas at a cost of Sh1.3 billion.
Kiage said the fourth phase is currently underway and
involves connecting 122 sub-locations, including six in Mogotio constituency,
Baringo county, at Sh2.3 billion.
“Our aim is to ensure residents in these areas have access
to reliable communication, which is a major catalyst for improved security and
development,” he said.
The impact of the expanded communication network is being felt
in regions such as Kerio Valley, which has long been affected by banditry and
cattle rustling.
The National Police Service says the region is now largely
free of bandit activity following sustained security operations and the
surrender of firearms by former bandits.
Kerio Valley East subcounty police commander Zablon Okoyo
said communities are increasingly engaging in economic and development
activities following the restoration of peace.
Within the last year, more than 500 firearms have been
surrendered to security agencies, while hundreds of reformed bandits have also
laid down their arms.
Okoyo said security agencies continue to monitor individuals
suspected of criminal activities despite previous participation in disarmament
efforts.
He noted that most parts of Kerio Valley are now witnessing
increased business activity and social interaction that had previously been
disrupted by insecurity.
“Individuals who are still holding guns illegally cannot use
them freely because residents are keen to ensure peace and security prevail,”
Okoyo said.
The restoration of peace has also attracted increased
government investment in infrastructure and development projects across the
region.
Residents and leaders have backed government efforts to
restore stability, with more than Sh1.5 billion currently being invested in
roads and other projects aimed at opening up the region for economic growth.
Security officials say improved communication
infrastructure, combined with sustained security operations and community
cooperation, has contributed significantly to the gains made in restoring peace
and supporting development in previously troubled areas.
INSTANT ANALYSIS
The investment in telecommunications infrastructure highlights the growing link between connectivity, security and development. In remote regions where poor network coverage has historically hampered security operations, improved communication is proving to be an effective tool in combating banditry and supporting economic activity. The reported gains in Kerio Valley suggest that infrastructure development can complement traditional security interventions by improving surveillance, emergency response and coordination among agencies. However, sustaining these gains will require continued investment, community cooperation and economic opportunities for former bandits. The success of the programme could provide a model for addressing insecurity in other marginalised regions.
