Until mid 2009, the Eastern African Seaboard, including Kenya, did not have submarine fibre optic connectivity and therefore depended largely on expensive, satellite-based communications for international connectivity. Affordable connectivity enhances a region’s competitiveness and opens up opportunities for Foreign Direct investment (FDI), innovation, education and social development.
In September 2006, Kenya launched an ICT policy strongly articulating the case for urgent additional and significant investment in ICT infrastructure. This investment would seed technology-enabled industries and promote the achievement of Kenya’s Vision 2030 (Kenya’s national development strategy). These efforts were expected to significantly lower communication costs both for the internet and telephony and increase economic opportunities.
In April 2009, when AfriCOG undertook this study, four submarine fibre optic cable projects were well underway – the first two of which were scheduled to land in Kenya by June 2009: The East African Marine System (TEAMS) – conceived and promoted by the government; SEACOM – a private sector -led submarine cable system; the East African Submarine System (EASSy); and the Lower Indian Ocean Network (LION) – driven by France Telecom.