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Part of Kenya’s vision 2030 goal is to
become a knowledge based society. The country has seen significant growth in the
use of internet, particularly in urban areas. The growth is supported by
enhanced infrastructure such as electric connectivity, roads, and payment
systems.
According to a report by Kenya Institute
for Public Policy Research and Analysis, internet users in Kenya rose to more
than 26 million in 2014 from only 4.77 million internet consumers in 2010. The
rise in number of internet users is attributed to liberalization of the telecommunications
sector as well as increased investments in the industry. Currently, Kenya has
several internet service providers such as Wananchi group, Safaricom, Telkom
Kenya, Bharti Airtel, Surf, and Jamii telecommunication.
Rural areas have lagged behind in the
number of internet users yet they have the largest portion of Kenya’s
population. An estimated 15% of rural dwellers have access to internet services
compared to over 80% of urban dwellers. Rural regions lack supportive
infrastructure needed to provide internet services. As a result, the areas do
not reap the benefits of internet connection such as; job opportunities, improved
productivity, easy access to information, and reduced transaction costs.
Researchers at the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis recommend that government put in more resources toward developing internet infrastructure in the underdeveloped areas. The investment will lead to better wages and improved lives for rural communities. Subsequently, improved internet connectivity will translate to a better economy.
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