How PANG pilot's project in Turkana is expected to stimulate local digital economy growth

The Pan African Network Group (PANG) is spearheading the execution of a Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) Pilot Project in Kakuma Ward, Turkana County, with the goal of improving digital inclusion and expanding the coverage of Kenya's broadcasting infrastructure.

The project, supported by the Universal Service Fund (USF) and overseen by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), targets disadvantaged regions where the expansion of commercial broadcasting has been limited due to high infrastructure costs.

County officials held a stakeholder engagement session last week featuring national government administrators, education representatives, local leaders, and community members to assess the project's implementation framework and its potential economic impacts.

At the event, Tamima Ibrahim, General Manager of Pan African Network Group (PANG), remarked that the pilot marks an important milestone in enhancing broadcast signal distribution to developing markets.

“Funding infrastructure in overlooked regions such as Turkana creates enduring advantages for the entire broadcasting network.” "By extending signal reach, we are laying the groundwork for improved content access, growth in advertising, and greater participation in the digital economy," Tamima said.

She noted that besides improving access to free-to-air television, the initiative seeks to stimulate local economic activity by enabling information sharing, enhancing education opportunities, and boosting connectivity.

She stated that once operational, the DTT pilot is anticipated to provide residents with over 500 television and radio services, significantly enhancing access to news, educational resources, government messages, and public service content