By Lilian Mutua

Members of the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation have expressed satisfaction with the progress of key digital infrastructure projects following an inspection tour of facilities in Nyeri County.

The team, led by Baringo Woman Representative Hon. Jematia Sergon, visited the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC), the ICT Authority, and Konza-supported digital connectivity projects in Kieni Constituency.

Speaking during the tour, Hon. Sergon urged the public to safeguard government investments and warned against vandalism of public facilities.

“We always urge wananchi to take care of government projects. These facilities are built using taxpayers’ money and are meant to serve both current and future generations,” she said.

She noted that the committee was impressed by the steady progress of the projects and pledged continued oversight.

“We are delighted to be in Nyeri today to oversee these projects. We will return based on contractor timelines to ensure they are completed and deliver value to the people,” she added.

The legislator said the digital hubs would open up economic opportunities, particularly for youth and small-scale traders.

“This facility will provide powerful connectivity. It will enable young people—and even farmers—to sell products like vegetables and honey online,” she said.

Nandi Hills MP Hon. Bernard Kitur said the committee’s visit followed an invitation by Kieni MP Antony Njoroge, who lobbied for the project.

“We allocated funds to ensure this project enhances digitalisation and connectivity in line with the government’s agenda,” said Hon. Kitur. “What we have seen here in Kafaru Ward is impressive and aligns with the national plan to expand connectivity across the country.”

He referenced the government’s ambitious fibre rollout programme, noting that the initiative would bridge the digital divide.

“We are happy with the progress and expect the project to be completed by July, after which we shall return for its launch,” he said.

Hon. Njoroge welcomed the project, noting that Kieni was among a select number of constituencies benefiting from the programme.

“Out of 290 constituencies, only 40 were selected, and we are proud to be among them. ICT is the future we can now work globally while based here,” he said.

He added that the facility would initially accommodate 160 youth per session, with plans to expand capacity to over 300.

“I challenge our young people to seize this opportunity. The digital economy rewards discipline and initiative,” he said.

Local administrators also welcomed the project, citing its potential to transform livelihoods.

Kabaru Location Chief John Maina Muraya said residents previously travelled up to 30 kilometres to access internet services.

“We are about 28,000 people in this ward, and this hub will bring services closer. Our youth are eager to learn and benefit from digital skills programmes,” he said.

The chief added that initiatives such as the Nyota programme were equipping young people with digital, business and soft skills before transitioning them to technical institutions.

During the visit to the ODPC offices, lawmakers emphasised the importance of data protection in an increasingly digital society.

Hon. Kitur urged institutions handling personal data to comply with the law and work closely with the regulator.

“Kenyans are generating vast amounts of data. Any institution handling this data must adhere to proper guidelines under the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner,” he said.

The committee said it would compile a report on its findings and present it to Parliament ahead of the next budget cycle.

Hon. Sergon called for unity in advancing Kenya’s digital agenda and cautioned young people against the misuse of online platforms.

“We must use digital spaces responsibly. As we approach the election period, let social media be a tool for growth and not division,” she said.

The tour underscores Parliament’s oversight role in ensuring government-funded projects deliver on their mandate, with leaders expressing optimism that the Nyeri initiatives will significantly boost digital access and economic opportunities.