The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) is set to deploy transmitting stations for Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) and provide signal distribution in unserved and underserved areas in Northwestern and Eastern parts of Kenya as part of a campaign to drive inclusivity in economic growth.
DTT is a technology for broadcast television in which land-based (terrestrial) television stations broadcast content by radio waves to viewers.
DTT is the backbone of free-to-air access and the most widely used means of receiving television globally.
“In recent studies, the Authority has identified significant gaps in access to digital broadcasting services in regions such as Turkana, Marsabit, and Mandera. Due to insufficient infrastructure, these counties experience limited access to reliable television broadcasting” CA said in a tender call for the rollout of a DTT pilot project in unserved and underserved parts of Kenya.
“Expanding DTT coverage in these areas aligns with Kenya's commitment to digital migration and supports the government's goal of fostering universal access to ICT (information and communication technology) services for all” it added.
The regulator said it targets to deploy transmitting stations for DTT and signal distribution in several areas including; Kakuma (Turkana), Mount Kulal (Marsabit), and Takaba (Mandera), which are currently unserved.
“The Kenya Digital Economic Blueprint 2019 emphasises adopting digital technologies to enhance all Kenyans' living standards. The blueprint seeks to harness the benefits of a digitally driven economy to foster sustainable economic growth. Access to reliable broadcasting and information services is a cornerstone of this vision, bridging the digital divide in underserved areas” CA said.
Data by CA shows that DTT subscriptions grew 0.5 percent to 4,534,925 in the quarter to December 2024, up from 4,510,423 in the previous quarter that ended in September.
CA said that the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998 (No. 2) mandates it to ensure universal access to ICT services and pointed out that the push would help residents of Turkana, Marsabit, and Mandera access information and communication to align with national priorities under the Kenya Digital Economic Blueprint.
“In line with this mandate, through the Universal Service Fund (USF), the Communications Authority seeks to enhance access to digital broadcasting services by establishing Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) infrastructure in underserved and marginalised counties,” it said.
