State to improve network coverage in Narok after 'Nation' story
A telecommunications tower. For many years, residents of Endoinyo Erinka village in Narok South have struggled with persistent mobile phone network issues.
The government has responded to the plight of residents in remote parts of Narok County by launching a project to improve network coverage after years of poor connectivity.
The intervention follows a public outcry and a widely viewed special report by NTV and Nation.Africa highlighting the struggles of residents of Endoinyo Erinka village due to limited or no network service.
Government officials and the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) visited the affected areas and pledged to improve communications infrastructure.
The initiative falls under Phase 4 of a nationwide network expansion project that has been allocated Sh3.16 billion for the current financial year. The project aims to improve network access in 300 sub-locations across the country, 22 of which are in Narok County.
Speaking during a validation exercise on March 12, 2025, officials from the Ministry of Information, Communication and Digital Economy said the initiative targets marginalised communities through the Universal Service Fund.
“This project aims to serve underserved communities and has already reached 1.1 million people since Phase 1 began. The tendering process is ongoing, and Phase 4 will be implemented over the next two years,” said Paul Kiage, the director of the Communications Authority.
An officer from the ICT Ministry, Charles Ndambuki, said the Universal Service Fund has not only expanded ICT access but also promoted capacity building and innovation.
“We have confirmed that this project has met our expectations and is effectively serving the community,” he said, adding that plans are underway to address challenges such as limited internet access.
Residents have welcomed the intervention, saying it will significantly improve their daily lives.
“This area has been marginalised for a long time, and we are happy that we will be able to make calls. This will also improve security,” said Silas, a resident of Narok.
He noted that better communication would allow the community to respond more quickly to emergencies, including encounters with wild animals.
Residents have also urged the government to address other infrastructural challenges, particularly the poor road network, which continue to hinder development in the region.