The Kenyan government has announced a new World Bank-funded infrastructure project to install a high-capacity fibre optic cable along the Isiolo–Mandera corridor, aiming to boost digital connectivity in northern Kenya and strengthen cross-border links with Ethiopia and Somalia.
In a notice dated July 8, 2025, the Information and Communications Technology Authority (ICTA) said the project is part of the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HoAGDP), which seeks to improve regional integration through advanced ICT infrastructure.
“The government plans to install a high-capacity fibre optic cable along the Isiolo–Mandera corridor to enhance digital connectivity and interconnect to Ethiopia and Somalia,” the notice read.
As part of preparations for the project’s procurement phase, ICTA has launched an Early Market Engagement (EME) process to consult suppliers, contractors, and industry players in the ICT infrastructure sector.
This engagement aims to inform stakeholders of upcoming opportunities, assess industry capacity and innovations, and collect feedback on technical requirements to shape an effective procurement strategy.
Key components of the project will include the installation of backbone fibre optic infrastructure from Isiolo to Mandera, cross-border connections into Ethiopia and Somalia, installation of metro and last-mile fibre optic cables, deployment of public Wi-Fi hotspots in institutions such as schools, hospitals, and markets, as well as the supply and installation of networking equipment like routers, switches, and power systems. The project will also involve civil works and solar power installations.
The engagement is open to licensed ICT contractors, fibre optics solution providers, local and international firms with relevant experience, consultants, and power solution providers in the telecoms sector.
ICTA announced that the engagement will be conducted both in person in Nairobi and virtually, with the date and venue to be communicated.
Interested firms and individuals are encouraged to express interest by Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
Submissions should be sent via email to hoagdp@icta.go.ke, with a copy to procurement@ict.go.ke, using the subject line: “Expression of Interest – Early Market Engagement: Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project.”
Interested participants can also register online via https://icta.go.ke/events, where they will receive a workshop brief and further instructions upon registration.
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