The Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) will provide high-speed Internet at Mombasa waterfront to enhance communication and security at the facility.

Information, Communication, Technology Principal Secretary Jerome Ochieng said the provision of reliable and high-quality internet was critical for the project, which is expected to attract more international and local visitors to the coastal city.

“We intend to create a conducive technology infrastructure that will enhance communication and visitor experience through sharing of photos and video while enjoying the beautiful view of the Indian Ocean,” said Ochieng.

The PS made the announced that Mombasa when he visited Mama Ngina Drive, the proposed site for the Sh460 million waterfront project.

He said with high-quality internet connectivity, the project will provide an ideal platform for the establishment of an innovation hub, cybercafé and also help youth to promote their talents.

Ochieng further said besides improving communication, there is also a need to enhance security at the waterfront through CCTV cameras that will help monitor movements and other activities within the area.

“Such a facility of international status needs modern security technology for the safety of visitors and those conducting business,” the PS explained.

Ochieng said the involvement of the ICT ministry in the project shows that the government is committed to improving the tourism industry by making Mombasa a waterfront destination.

The waterfront project that was launched by President Uhuru Kenyatta in January last year is expected to transform the famous Mama Ngina Drive to international status and reposition Mombasa as a top tourist destination. Locally, it will provide Kenyans with a modern recreational facility.

Apart from being a major boost to the tourism industry, the project which is a joint venture between the national government and county government of Mombasa will also spur business and other economic activities.

At the same time, Ochieng said the ICT ministry has put in place a programme that ensures reliable internet connectivity in all the ministries and government departments to enhance service delivery.

“ICT will transform government operations for effective and efficient service delivery in the public sector,” said the PS.

Ochieng gave details of Mama Ngina Drive modernisation programme during a meeting former Coast Regional Commissioner Bernard Leparmarai.

During his tour of the regions, he said he wanted to familiarise himself with the progress of internet connectivity in government ministers and inspecting submarine cables at Fort Jesus landing point.

He said the government was keen to see improved internet connectivity at county governments and government departments through County Connectivity Project and National Fibre Optic Backbone (NOFBI) to improve service delivery.

Ochieng said the ministry was aware of the internet challenges facing the Immigration department in Mombasa that has slowed down processing of travelling documents.

“The matter is being addressed and will soon be resolved,” said Ochieng when he visited the department accompanied by Leparmarai.

Leparmarai applauded the ICT ministry for improving internet connectivity and said it would enhance government operations.

He noted that ICT plays a major role in all key sectors including security which has contributed to the enhancement of service delivery in the public sector.