The Nairobi County Government has launched an aggressive crackdown on unauthorized fiber optic cables installed on power poles, sending shockwaves across internet service providers and residents. The operation, which began earlier this week, aims to clear what county officials term as ‘illegal and hazardous’ installations that have cropped up across the city’s skyline.
According to the Nairobi County Chief Officer for Revenue Administration and Acting Chief Officer for ICT Infrastructure Tiras Njoroge, many fiber cables have been laid without proper permits, posing a risk to both power infrastructure and public safety. “We are not against internet connectivity, but we must ensure it is done in an organized and regulated manner,” Njoroge stated.
However, internet service providers have raised concerns about the potential disruptions this move could cause to businesses and homes that rely on high-speed internet. Residents, too, are worried that the crackdown could leave them offline, impacting their business. “This should be done in an organized manner that does not disrupt our businesses said Susan Njoroge, a Nairobi resident.
Despite the outcry, the county government insists that only properly licensed cables will be allowed to remain in place. Service providers have been urged to regularize their installations within the next 30 days or face continued removals.
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