Bringing the World Closer to Remote Island Communities
In a landmark initiative for digital inclusion, Kuria Island residents gained their first-ever access to online communication through an innovative Wi-Fi project supported by the Universal Access Fund (UAF).
With no mobile service available, the Kuria Island Council successfully secured UAF funding to establish internet connectivity across all villages. The project deployed seven solar-powered Wi-Fi sites strategically throughout the island, enabling residents to connect with family members abroad for the very first time.
Beyond providing immediate connectivity, the initiative focused on sustainability. While the UAF funded the first year of internet bandwidth, the Island Council received training and implementation support for a business model to commercialize Wi-Fi services. This approach empowered local leadership to build capacity for independent operations after the initial support period.
On February 20, 2020, Minister Willie Tokataake of the Ministry of Communication, Transport and Tourism Development (MCTTD) officially handed over the completed project to the community. Today, this transformative initiative continues to serve the entire island, bridging the digital divide and creating new opportunities for Kuria's residents.