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Kenya and Tanzania have jointly launched a new terrestrial fiber optic link between Dar es Salaam and Mombasa, a project aimed at improving digital communication and internet access across East Africa.
The launch event was held at the Lunga Lunga–Horohoro border crossing. It was officiated by Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo, together with Tanzania’s Minister for Information, Communication, and Information Technology, Jerry William Silaa.
This cross-border fiber link is a result of collaboration between Kenya’s ICT Authority (ICTA) and the Tanzania Telecommunications Corporation (TTLC).
Its primary goal is to provide faster internet, support online trade, and narrow the digital access gap between the two countries.
During the launch, Mr. Kabogo reiterated Kenya’s dedication to building a unified digital Africa.
He explained that the new infrastructure will create employment, encourage innovation, and strengthen regional development.
He also called for aligned digital policies and regulations across the region to ensure secure and efficient use of digital resources.
On his part, Minister Silaa emphasized the need for system compatibility to allow smooth communication between the two countries.
He noted that the fiber connection will help both nations work more closely and share information more effectively.
Kenya’s Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui, described the fiber link as a critical step towards establishing strong digital foundations that will serve the entire East African region.
The newly launched fiber link is expected to open up new avenues for cross-border business, improve government service delivery, and advance East Africa’s digital transformation goals.
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