Kenya Pipeline to Diversify into the Fibre Optic Cable Business

The Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC), has announced it is branching into the fibre optic business.

KPC is the parastatal mandated to transport petroleum products from the Mombasa port to all parts of Kenya and will use the diversification into internet services as an effort to expand its revenue streams. The company will use its existing infrastructure as the foundation for its ICT business.

“Just like in the pipeline business where we enable economic growth through fueling the economy, through fiber optics, we are enabling internet connectivity in support of the Government’s agenda of ‘Internet Mashinani’,” KPC Managing Director Macharia Irungu said adding that the move will boost the government’s agenda to push internet connectivity in the country.

KPC obtained a tier 2 license from the Communications Authority in 2018 and now joins 22 other providers under the same provision.

“Through the dark fiber carrier-of-carriers’ business, we seek to spur change in the industry landscape for our customers, Government institutions,  three international data & voice gateway providers as well as other tech-oriented corporates,” The MD said.

“We can’t have too much fibre in the country, and so this working together is really good because it’s helping ensure that the country grows,” He said, “I urge other companies like Kenya Power and Ketraco who have the ‘right of way’ to venture into fibre optic cable laying to improve the country’s internet infrastructure at zero cost.’’ Cabinet Secretary for ICT, Innovation, and Youth Affairs Joe Mucheru said.

The cable laid by Kenya Pipeline has a life span of 25 years and users. The company will charge Sh2, 508 per kilometer and an additional Sh22,800 installation fee per site. Telcos and ISP providers who want to use this infrastructure will sign contracts running for a duration of 5,10,15, 20, and 25 years.


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