The Communications Authority of Kenya has invited public feedback on proposed guidelines to improve the safety and reliability of internet infrastructure. The rules address growing public complaints about poorly installed fiber cables hanging on poles, walls, and streets. Comments are due by May 20.
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) issued a statement on Monday, May 4, announcing proposed national standards for designing, laying, labelling, sharing, and protecting fiber optic and other telecommunications cables.
The guidelines promote infrastructure sharing, better protection of critical assets, and compliance with building, environmental, and safety codes. The authority stated, “Your internet experience doesn’t start at your phone; it begins with the cables right outside your home or office.” It added that poor installations result in slow speeds, frequent outages, and safety risks.
Key measures include strict rules to eliminate overhead wires and careless trenching, with urban trenches at least 600 millimetres deep and maintenance holes every 150 to 200 metres. New buildings, including affordable housing projects, must include broadband ducts under the forthcoming Building Code 2025.
Members of the public are urged to review the consultation paper and submit views by May 20. If adopted, the rules will take effect on July 1, 2026, after publication in the Kenya Gazette.