The government of Kenya is pushing for sweeping changes in the ICT sector that could compel telecommunication operators and internet service providers (ISPs) to share critical infrastructure such as masts, fibre-optic cables, and towers.

The draft Kenya Information and Communications (Infrastructure Sharing) Regulations, 2025, released by the Ministry of ICT and the Digital Economy, aim to cut costs, eliminate duplication of installations, and expand access to affordable communication services.

Purpose of the Regulations

The Ministry argues that sharing infrastructure will encourage efficiency, lower rollout expenses, and level the playing field in the digital economy. Smaller service providers stand to benefit significantly, as the cost of entering the telecom and internet markets will reduce, thereby boosting digital penetration—a central goal of the Kenya Kwanza administration.

What Will Be Shared

According to the draft notice, telecoms and ISPs will be required to grant rival operators fair and non-discriminatory access to:

• -Base stations

• -Fibre ducts and poles

• -Transmission towers

• -Data centres

This would prevent duplication and ensure that essential facilities are not monopolised by a handful of dominant players.

Benefits and Risks

While the government sees the proposal as a way to improve access and efficiency, industry players have raised concerns. Sharing infrastructure could:

• -Limit how firms differentiate themselves in the market

• -Expose networks to risks such as sabotage

• -Lead to possible overuse of facilities by competitors

Wider ICT Sector Reforms

The draft regulations are part of a larger overhaul of Kenya’s ICT sector. The gazette notice published by Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo also proposes reforms in:

• -Broadcasting – more focus on local content and diversity of views

• -Tariffs and competition – ensuring fair pricing and consumer protection

• -Spectrum allocation – equitable use of the limited national resource

• -Consumer protection – improved customer care, stronger data safeguards, and better service quality

Environmental and Planning Concerns

The Ministry also highlighted environmental and health concerns linked to multiple mast installations, particularly in urban areas. Infrastructure sharing, it said, would reduce clutter, ease county government complaints, and support better urban planning.

Public Participation

Kenyans and stakeholders have been invited to submit their views within 14 days before the ministry finalises the regulations. The proposals are made under section 85A (3) of the Kenya Information and Communications Act, Cap. 411A.