The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) is set to roll out transmission stations for Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) in underserved and unserved regions of northwestern and eastern Kenya, including Turkana, Marsabit, and Mandera counties.
The initiative aims to boost access to free-to-air television and promote digital inclusivity, particularly in remote areas.
DTT is a land based broadcast technology that transmits television signals via radio waves, and it remains the most common method for accessing free-to-air television globally.
“In recent studies, the Authority has identified significant gaps in access to digital broadcasting services in regions such as Turkana, Marsabit, and Mandera. Due to insufficient infrastructure, these counties experience limited access to reliable television broadcasting,” the CA said in a public tender notice inviting bids for the implementation of a pilot project in the affected areas.
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The planned upgrade includes the installation of transmitting stations in Kakuma (Turkana), Mount Kulal (Marsabit), and Takaba (Mandera). These locations are currently not covered by the national DTT network.
“Expanding DTT coverage in these areas aligns with Kenya’s commitment to digital migration and supports the government’s broader goal of achieving universal access to ICT services,” the CA added.
The authority cited the Kenya Digital Economy Blueprint 2019, which advocates for the adoption of digital technologies to improve the quality of life and drive sustainable economic development.
“Access to reliable broadcasting and information services is a cornerstone of this vision, helping bridge the digital divide in underserved areas,” the regulator noted.
Recent data from the CA shows that digital terrestrial television subscriptions rose by 0.5 percent to 4.83 million in the quarter ending December 2024, up from 4.51 million in the previous quarter ending September.
