TESPOK NEWSLETTER

In this issue: As we reflect on the first quarter of 2025, TESPOK has continued to play a pivotal role in advancing Kenya’s ICT ecosystem. Explore key highlights, strategic engagements, and sector-shaping developments in our Q1 2024 newsletter.

Here’s what’s included:

• • • Industry Engagements
  • • Policy Advocacy and Regulatory Engagements
  • • Infrastructure Developments
  • • Strategic Partnerships & Global Representation
    • Pioneering Events

INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENTS

Annual General Meeting (AGM) : TESPOK held its Annual General Meeting (AGM), reflecting on the year’s achievements and setting goals for the future of the ICT industry. Thanks to all members for their continuous support. Courtesy Visit to Cabinet Secretary: TESPOK Board, led by James Turuthi and Dr. Fiona Asonga, visited Hon. William Kabogo, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications, and Digital Economy. The meeting focused on boosting public-private sector collaboration to accelerate Kenya’s digital transformation. Roundtable with Nairobi County: TESPOK members held a roundtable with Nairobi County officials on digital infrastructure protection. Emphasizing the need for better coordination, TESPOK urged the county to safeguard critical infrastructure from vandalism and improve wayleave processes to encourage investment in ICT. New Members’ Induction: We successfully held a New Members’ Induction Meeting, introducing new members to TESPOK’s mission and initiatives. This session also outlined opportunities for collaboration in advancing Kenya’s digital economy.

POLICY ADVOCACY & REGULATORY ENGAGEMENTS

Joint Policy Discussions: In January, TESPOK participated in a joint policy forum to provide industry input on Kenya’s draft National Cloud Strategy and the Communications Authority’s new market structure framework. These discussions aim to ensure regulatory frameworks align with industry needs. ICTA Bill Validation Workshop: On 30th January, TESPOK joined stakeholders at the ICT Authority (ICTA) validation workshop held at KICC, contributing to discussions around the proposed ICTA Bill. The Association shared key feedback to help shape legislation that supports sector growth and innovation. Ongoing CFO Engagement on Excise Duty: In February, TESPOK convened a virtual meeting with CFOs to address the ongoing issue of excise duty application within the ISP sector. TESPOK continues to engage both the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the National Treasury to seek clarity and advocate for fair treatment of ISPs under tax regulations. Board & Committee Meetings: During Q1 2025, the TESPOK Board and its committees held four strategic meetings focused on governance, policy direction, and member priorities. These sessions continue to guide the Association’s work in strengthening Kenya’s digital economy.

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENTS

Makupa Causeway Joint Project: A Collaborative Success

The Makupa Causeway project exemplifies the power of collaboration among TESPOK members in advancing infrastructure development. The initiative aimed to extend the sleeves connecting the ducts on the Makupa Bridge into Mombasa City. Coordinated by TESPOK, funds were collected from participating members and allocated to the contractor.

Key Highlights:

• • • Construction of 6 ducts and 5 manholes adhering to industry standards.
  • • Total cost: Ksh 2,270,313.1, shared among 10 TESPOK members.
  • • Each contributing member paid Ksh 227,031.31 for project access.
  • • KeNHA granted duct access only to contributing members.
    • Future access requires payment of the same amount as initial members.

The project was completed on schedule and deemed a resounding success, strengthening connectivity within Mombasa.

Intelligent Transport System Public Participation

Mombasa County was set to benefit from the Intelligent Transport System (ITS), a grant- funded initiative by Japan aimed at reducing traffic congestion and enhancing safety. However, despite initial progress, the project was ultimately called off by the Japanese Government.

Key Takeaways:

• • • 6 roundabouts were identified for infrastructure impact, requiring service relocation.
  • • No major excavations, thus underground infrastructure remained unaffected.
  • • Provision of ducts was encouraged to prevent aerial cables post-project.
  • • Connectivity services to be advertised for bidding, pending county notices.
    • Harassment from county officials was raised as a concern during relocation efforts.

While the cancellation was a setback, TESPOK remains committed to engaging with relevant stakeholders to facilitate future smart city infrastructure projects.

Nakuru County Engagement: Strengthening ICT Infrastructure

Following the Digital Summit in Naivasha, TESPOK secretariat engaged Nakuru County officials to address challenges in ICT infrastructure rollout.

Infrastructure Challenges Identified:

• • • High licensing fees due to unclear billing structures.
  • • Double charges for wayleaves when utilizing Kenya Power poles.
  • • Lack of awareness among contractors and county employees on fibre optic importance.
  • • Unclear relocation procedures for cables.
    • Need for a shared infrastructure framework to reduce rollout and maintenance costs.

Outcome and Next Steps:

• • • Nakuru County is developing an ICT policy, with TESPOK invited to contribute input.
  • • TESPOK members are encouraged to submit legal and policy concerns via memoranda.
  • • Potential partnerships in infrastructure, digital hubs, and county system integration.
    • A proposed county-sector engagement forum to foster ongoing discussions.

Police Collaboration for Infrastructure Protection

TESPOK will be coordinating engagements with law enforcement to enhance the protection of digital infrastructure. Members are encouraged to submit their OB numbers to facilitate a collective engagement with the police.

TESPOK’s Commitment to Infrastructure Advancement

From infrastructure expansions to policy advocacy, TESPOK remains dedicated to enhancing connectivity and digital infrastructure across Kenya. Through strategic partnerships and member- driven initiatives, we continue to shape a more inclusive, resilient, and future- ready ICT landscape. TESPOK is seeking information for a forum with members invitations will be sent. ICANN82CommunityForum:TESPOK CEO participated in ICANN 82, engaging in global internet governance discussions. The forum provided opportunities for alignment with international best practices in ICT policy and infrastructure. UNICAF Scholarship Webinar: TESPOK partnered with UNICAF to host a webinar on unlocking scholarship opportunities with up to 80% tuition discounts. The session supported members’ access to higher education and professional growth. WomenTodayConference2025:TESPOK CEO participated in the Women Today Conference, amplifying voices of women in the ICT sector. Discussions focused on leadership, innovation, and gender equity in digital transformation.

PIONEERING EVENTS

Safer Internet Day at Loreto Convent Msongari : TESPOK, alongside Eric Omondi, marked Safer Internet Day by educating students on online safety and responsible internet use through interactive sessions. Data Protection Panel in Eldoret: TESPOK CEO joined a panel hosted by the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner in Eldoret, focusing on cross sector collaboration to strengthen Kenya’s data protection ecosystem.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mark your calendars for these exciting events lined up in Q2 2025: