Nairobi Internet Disrupted – How Can This Be Resolved?

In my opinion, Kenya is facing a preventable crisis—one that exposes major
governance failures and threatens national cybersecurity.

*WHY THIS IS A CRISIS:*

– *Internet access is a human right *– As affirmed by the UN Human
Rights Council (A/HRC/32/L.20, 2016). Public officials cannot deliberately
cut off access to settle financial disputes.
– *A cybersecurity & economic risk* – Disrupting ICT infrastructure
compromises digital security, stalls businesses, and derails economic
growth.
– *A dangerous precedent *– If this is acceptable, will we see hospitals
losing water supply over unpaid fees? Roads barricaded over debts?

This is not just about money—it’s about governance, the rule of law, and
national stability.

*WHAT MUST HAPPEN IMMEDIATELY:*

– *Legal accountability* – Public officials must be held responsible.
Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act (2018) criminalizes ICT
interference, and NC4Kenya has gazetted internet lines as critical
infrastructure.
– *Binding arbitration for government disputes *– National
infrastructure must be protected from bureaucratic feuds.
– *A national ICT security protocol* – The Communications Authority (CA)
must establish a rapid-response mechanism to prevent reckless disruptions.

This is not just a financial dispute—it’s a governance failure that places
Kenya’s digital future at risk. Public services should NEVER be used as
bargaining chips.

Cybersecurity starts with responsible governance.

Stay happy,

Mutheu.

On Wed, Feb 26, 2025 at 7:21 AM David Indeje via KICTANet <
[email protected]> wrote:

> Dear Listers,
>
> A critical situation unfolding in Nairobi that’s causing widespread
> disruption: the ongoing dispute between Nairobi County and Kenya Power.
>
> As you may have heard/ read, Nairobi County officials have taken the
> drastic step of cutting fiber optic cables from Kenya Power’s utility
> poles. This action has resulted in significant internet service disruptions
> affecting businesses, schools, and homes across the capital.
>
> The core of the issue stems from an unpaid electricity bill of
> approximately $23.1 million (KES 3 billion) owed by Nairobi County to Kenya
> Power. However, the county government argues that Kenya Power owes them an
> even larger sum in unpaid land rates, wayleave fees, and parking charges.
> This counter-claim has escalated tensions and led to a hostile standoff.
>
> The Communications Authority (CA) has condemned these actions, emphasising
> that ICT infrastructure falls under national government jurisdiction. As
> the CA stated, “Fibre optic networks are a cornerstone of Kenya’s digital
> economy. Any interference must follow legal and regulatory frameworks.”
>
> This situation is clearly unsustainable and is severely impacting the
> digital economy and daily lives of Nairobi residents.
>
> *We are eager to hear your thoughts on how this dispute can be resolved.*
>
>
> —
> *Kind Regards,*
>
> *David Indeje*
>
> *@**KICTANet* <www.kictanet.or.ke/>
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>