Mobile Network Providers in Kenya Advocate for Digital Transformation to Enhance Coverage and Reduce Prices
In a significant move towards enhancing the digital landscape in Kenya, the government, under the leadership of Mr. Isaboke, Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, has reaffirmed its commitment to a policy framework that emphasises inclusivity, sustainability, and unity. The government's digital initiatives are part of a broader vision to unlock the full potential of the digital economy.
At a recent gathering attended by Airtel Kenya, Safaricom, Telkom Kenya, Jamii Telecommunications, Kenya Power, the Communications Authority of Kenya, EPRA, and the State Department for Energy, Mr. Isaboke emphasised the shared vision of driving innovation and inclusivity through improved digital infrastructure.
The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) has presented policy proposals to strengthen Kenya’s digital ecosystem. These proposals aim to reduce financial barriers, support device affordability, and reform spectrum licensing to enhance digital infrastructure and inclusion.
One of the key recommendations is the reduction of excise duty on mobile services and devices. This move is critical, as affordability barriers often limit digital inclusion, particularly among low-income and rural populations in Kenya. To further expand access, the GSMA proposes tax incentives or complete exemptions on entry-level smartphones.
Another important proposal is the review of SIM card costs. High SIM card prices can deter mobile adoption, so the GSMA supports reviewing and reducing these costs to encourage greater mobile phone penetration and connectivity.
The GSMA also encourages government policies that provide incentives for local manufacturing and assembly of mobile devices. This strategy supports job creation, local industry development, and potentially reduces device costs for consumers through shorter supply chains and import duty savings.
Efficient and fair spectrum allocation and licensing reforms are proposed to improve network coverage and service quality, fostering competition and innovation in the telecom sector. This includes making spectrum more affordable and accessible to new and existing operators to expand digital infrastructure.
The GSMA's proposals align with broader goals to promote digital inclusion, stimulate local tech ecosystems, and enhance affordability. These measures collectively aim to accelerate Kenya's digital ecosystem development and financial inclusion agenda.
It's worth noting that the government's digital initiatives are not limited to improving connectivity but also aim to improve service delivery and drive economic empowerment for all citizens. The proposals, presented on June 26th, 2025, include taxation reforms and frequency spectrum license renewals.
The GSMA further advocates for import duty exemptions on completely knocked down (CKD) smart device units assembled in Kenya to promote local manufacturing. These initiatives collectively aim to bridge the digital divide, create pathways to digital equity, and drive innovation and inclusivity in Kenya's digital economy.
- To strengthen the digital infrastructure in Kenya, the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) proposed tax incentives or exemptions on entry-level smartphones and import duty exemptions on completely knocked down (CKD) smart device units assembled in Kenya, which aim to reduce financial barriers, support device affordability, and foster local manufacturing.
- In addition to driving innovation and inclusivity through improved digital infrastructure, the government's digital initiatives also focus on education and self-development. The proposals presented by the GSMA align with these goals, aiming to promote digital inclusion, stimulate local tech ecosystems, and enhance affordability, ultimately driving economic empowerment for all citizens.
