Energy solutions firm Koko Networks is seeking to diversify its portfolio to the telecommunications industry after it submitted its application for an operating licence from the sector regulator.
A disclosure by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) said Koko is seeking the permit to operate as a tier-three network facilities provider (NFP).
This category of permit authorises a player to control transmission, switching, or routing systems as well as other resources that permit the conveyance of signals either by wire, radio optical, or other electromagnetic means.
The licensed systems may be used to establish terrestrial fixed and mobile networks, including electronic communications networks established over other utilities such as electricity cable systems, to the extent that they are used for the purpose of transmitting signals, networks used for radio and television broadcasting.
A tier three licence allows a licensee to deploy communication infrastructure within a specific region using any technology except satellite communications. Examples of existing tier-three NFPs in the country include Dereki Enterprises Limited, Kwetu Computers Limited, Quick Fiber Limited, Millenia Limited and Xtranet Communications Limited.
Koko Networks, which has operations in India and East Africa, has been fronting ethanol as a cleaner, cheaper cooking fuel among Kenya’s urban poor households.
Other pending applications captured in the CA notice include that of Kimba Luxury Retreat Castle Limited which has applied for a similar permit, Newcom Towers Limited which is seeking a tier two (NFP) licence, as well as Eastern Grandeur Coach Limited which is pursuing a national courier licence.
“The Authority wishes to notify the general public that any legal or natural person... who are desirous of making any representation and/or any objection to the said applications, to do so vide a letter addressed to the Director General,” said CA.
“The said representation and/or objection must be filed on or before expiry of thirty (30) days from the date of publication of this notice and a copy of the same be forwarded to the applicant.”
