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The Government of Kenya has started talks with industry players about a new major fibre optic infrastructure project that will connect northeastern Kenya with Somalia and Ethiopia. The goal is to increase digital access and strengthen regional cooperation across the Horn of Africa.
This initiative is part of the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HoAGDP), which is being carried out by Kenya’s Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, together with the ICT Authority. The project is funded by the World Bank and aims to improve digital connections and trade in the region.
What the Project Involves
At the core of the plan is the construction of a 740-kilometre fibre optic backbone that will run from Isiolo to Mandera — two counties that border Ethiopia and Somalia. In addition to this backbone, 200 kilometres of smaller metro and last-mile fibre optic cables will be installed. These will bring internet services to public institutions like schools, hospitals, markets, and government offices.
The project is expected to benefit counties that have been historically underserved, such as Isiolo, Meru, Wajir, Garissa, and Mandera. By improving internet access in these areas, the government hopes to improve education, healthcare, business opportunities, and digital trade across borders.
Engaging the Market Early
To prepare for the construction and procurement stages, the ICT Authority is conducting an Early Market Engagement (EME). This consultation is meant to gather ideas and feedback from companies involved in ICT, power solutions, and infrastructure.
Even though the consultation is non-binding, the feedback will help shape how the project will be carried out — including the technical requirements and how services will be delivered. According to Stanley Kamanguya, the CEO of the ICT Authority, this is a “critical opportunity” for industry players to help shape Kenya’s digital future and strengthen regional partnerships.
What Will Be Procured?
The government will be looking for firms to provide the following services and equipment:
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Installation of the main backbone fibre optic network along the Isiolo–Mandera corridor
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Cross-border fibre optic connections to Somalia and Ethiopia
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Extension of fibre networks to schools, hospitals, markets, and other public institutions
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Setting up public Wi-Fi in key public areas
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Supply of networking equipment such as routers, switches, and backup power systems
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Construction works, including installation of solar-powered systems to support the network
Past Successes and Future Plans
This project builds on the success of the earlier Eastern Africa Regional Transport, Trade and Development Facilitation Project (EARTTDFP), which connected Eldoret to the South Sudan border through Turkana. That project also connected over 190 schools, hospitals, and government offices to the internet.
John Tanui, the Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, appreciated the World Bank’s ongoing support. He said that both the HoAGDP and EARTTDFP are “key pillars” of Kenya’s long-term digital and infrastructure strategy.
How to Participate
Companies interested in the project must send their Expression of Interest by Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
Submissions should be emailed to:
📧 hoagdp@icta.go.ke
📧 procurement@ict.go.ke
Subject Line:
“Expression of Interest – Early Market Engagement: Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project”
Interested firms must also register online here:
👉 https://icta.go.ke/events
After registering, companies will receive a brief about the workshop and more details about how to participate. The engagement will be done in a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person attendance in Nairobi and online participation. The exact date and venue will be announced soon.
Required Submission Details:
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A short company profile
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Areas of specialization or interest in the project
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Examples of relevant local or international experience
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Any suggestions or comments about the project’s scope or delivery
This fibre optic project is a big step toward better digital access, stronger regional ties, and economic development for Kenya and its neighbors.