Dar-es-Salaam - Mombasa Terrestrial Fibre Link at the Lunga Lunga/Horohoro border

Kenya and Tanzania officially launched the Dar-es-Salaam to Mombasa Terrestrial Fibre Link at the Lunga Lunga/Horohoro border. This high-speed infrastructure connects Kenya’s National ICT Broadband Backbone (NICTBB) with Tanzania’s National Fiber Network, unlocking faster, more affordable internet and seamless regional connectivity.

Jointly implemented by the ICT Authority of Kenya and Tanzania Telecommunications Corporation (TTCL), and coordinated by the ICT ministries of both countries, the project reflects a bold vision for a digitally interconnected East Africa. It goes beyond infrastructure. This fibre link is a gateway to education, healthcare, e-commerce, innovation and economic growth for millions.

With 130 kilometers of high-capacity fiber deployed between Mombasa and Horohoro, the project brings real change to rural and underserved communities, where digital access has long been out of reach. It enables access to digital learning, telemedicine, smart agriculture tools, and online markets; empowering people and communities with tools to thrive.

ICT and Digital Economy PS Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui emphasized how this new link will create opportunities for youth-led innovation, startups, and SMEs. “It opens up access to regional markets and the global digital economy,” he noted, pointing to its potential to generate jobs and drive inclusive growth.

ICT Authority Ag. CEO Zilpher Owiti announced that Kenya has offered discounted fiber leasing rates to Tanzania to make internet access more affordable across the region. This will support students, entrepreneurs and institutions thus accelerating digital inclusion and aligning with Kenya’s Digital Transformation Agenda and the AU Agenda 2063.

CS Hon. William Kabogo called the fibre link a cornerstone of the future One Network Area, where East Africans enjoy seamless digital services across borders. He highlighted its role in streamlining trade, customs, logistics and empowering informal traders especially women and youth to engage in digital commerce.

The launch event brought together top officials from both countries, including: Hon. Jerry Silaa (MP) – Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Tanzania, Eng. Leo Magomba – Representing PS, MCIT Tanzania, Hon. Lily Ng’ok – Chairperson, ICT Authority, Kenya, Moremi Andrea Marwa – Director General, TTCL and Amb. Dr. Batilda Burian – Regional Commissioner, Tanga, Tanzania. Their presence reinforced the project's status as both a technological milestone and a symbol of regional cooperation.

This fibre link isn’t just about faster internet—it’s about opportunity. It carries the promise of better services, stronger communities and a digitally empowered future. With the right investments and partnerships, East Africa is not only connecting, it’s rising!