(Ecofin Agency) - In a bid to use internet as a growth driver, in June 2019, Kenya will add an additional 9, 100 kilometers of optical fiber to its network.

The extension will cost Ksh20 billion (about $196 million) and add to the existing 8,000 kilometers.  

The project was disclosed by president Uhuru Kenyatta (photo) last week during the launch of a digital economy plan aimed at guiding Africa towards the adoption of digital technologies as economic drivers.  

According to Uhuru Kenyatta, this new investment will facilitate digital transaction on the national, regional and international levels. Once completed, the national backbone should connect more than 10,000 health institutions and public services to the internet and facilitate access to government services.