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Kenya, France Sign Landmark Deal To Boost Universal Internet Access
Kenya and France have signed a landmark cooperation agreement aimed at accelerating Kenya’s digital transformation and expanding high-speed internet connectivity to underserved communities across the country.
The agreement, witnessed by Kenyan President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron at State House Nairobi, is part of the Kenya Digital Transformation and Connectivity Enhancement Project and will support the rollout of digital infrastructure to households, schools, and hospitals.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, President Ruto described the partnership as a major boost to Kenya’s Digital Superhighway programme.
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“This partnership with France isn’t just about cables and hardware; it’s about connecting the youth in our villages to the global economy,” said President Ruto.
A key component of the agreement is the establishment of Community Digital Hubs aimed at providing rural and underserved urban communities with affordable internet access, digital literacy training, and spaces to support innovation and entrepreneurship.
The financing will also support the rollout of fibre optic infrastructure to public institutions, including schools and healthcare facilities, to improve digital service delivery.
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The digital cooperation deal was among 11 agreements signed between Kenya and France valued at more than $1 billion (KES 130 billion). The agreements span multiple sectors, including transport, energy, and education.
Among the projects announced are the modernisation of the Nairobi Commuter Rail system, expansion of energy infrastructure through the 100MW Kipeto Wind Farm project, and the establishment of a Science and Innovation Hub at the University of Nairobi.
President Macron said Kenya remains France’s leading economic partner in East Africa and emphasised the importance of collaboration in technology, sustainability, and innovation.
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“Our shared future lies in innovation, green energy, and digital sovereignty,” said President Macron.
The French leader’s visit coincides with the Africa Forward Summit 2026, the first French-led regional summit to be hosted in a non-Francophone African country.
Implementation of the digital connectivity project is expected to begin next quarter, with priority given to counties that currently have low internet penetration.