GSMA engages Kenyan authorities on spectrum reform and digital inclusion

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

The GSMA delegation, including Luciana Camargos, Michaela Angonius, Caroline Mbugua, Luiz Felippe Zoghbi, Linus Melly, Philippe Goabga, and Nitin Sapra, has held a series of strategic engagements in Nairobi this week to support Kenya’s digital economy objectives.

As part of activities, the team met with Steve Isaboke, Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, to discuss key issues affecting digital competitiveness, including spectrum pricing reform, satellite regulation, and energy challenges in the telecom sector. These discussions are aimed at addressing Kenya’s 60% mobile internet usage gap despite near-universal 4G coverage, with the goal of unlocking further socioeconomic benefits through predictable and efficient spectrum management.

The following day, the GSMA hosted a workshop titled “Driving Digital Inclusion in Kenya: Effective Spectrum Licensing and the Role of Satellite Technologies,” in collaboration with the Communications Authority of Kenya. The event brought together policymakers and industry leaders to explore transparent spectrum planning, satellite integration, and accelerated digital adoption, with opening remarks delivered by Mohamed A. Haji, Director of Standards and Resource Management.

The GSMA thanked the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy and the Communications Authority for their collaboration and emphasized ongoing efforts to advance Kenya’s digital future.