Kapcherop Town is about to experience a significant boost in its digital connectivity as the Ministry of Information Communication and the Digital Economy prepares to launch public Wi-Fi hotspots in the area.
The announcement was made by the Ministry of ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo during the inauguration of the Jitume Youth Digital Empowerment Centre at Kapcherop Technical and Vocational College.
CS Owalo highlighted the forthcoming implementation of public Wi-Fi in Kapcherop, emphasizing its potential to greatly benefit the local business community.
He noted that with access to Wi-Fi hotspots, entrepreneurs in Kapcherop will be able to promote their businesses not only within Kenya but also in the global market. This move is expected to enhance economic growth and facilitate increased opportunities for the region.
Further, the Ministry of ICT aims to ensure that the youth in Elgeyo Marakwet County have access to technology and digital education.
As part of this initiative, digital laboratories will be established in each ward of the county, making it easier for young people to learn technological skills and access employment opportunities.
The introduction of the digital program to the Jitume Centre at Kapcherop Technical and Vocational College is expected to play a vital role in equipping the youth with digital skills. Through these skills, they will be able to earn a living by leveraging on the power of computers and seeking online work.
To support this endeavor, the Ministry has partnered with renowned organizations such as Amazon Web Services, Moringa School, Google, and Microsoft to provide free training services to the youth.
In addition to the training, the Ministry has also collaborated with various job aggregators to assist in sourcing employment opportunities for the youth. This partnership ensures that job prospects are accessible to the young individuals visiting the Jitume Centers.
Depending on the skills possessed, these opportunities could yield earnings ranging from Sh20,000 to Sh200,000, creating a significant impact on their lives and the local economy.
Expressing gratitude for the government’s noble initiative, the Principal of Kapcherop Technical and Vocational College Simon Cheplogoi acknowledged the benefits that the Jitume programme would bring to the youth of the region.
Cheplogoi extended an invitation to the young individuals in Kapcherop, emphasizing that the facilities were not exclusively reserved for college students but open to all members of the community.
The launch of the jitume youth digital empowerment center and the set launch of public Wi-Fi in Kapcherop is a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and empowering the local population with valuable skills and access to global opportunities.
It is anticipated that this development will unlock new avenues for economic growth, improve livelihoods, and enhance the overall well-being of the residents.
The Ministry of ICT’s commitment to digital empowerment is commendable, and its collaboration with both public and private partners exemplifies a comprehensive approach toward achieving a digitally inclusive future for Kapcherop town and beyond, noted Cheplogoi.
By Rennish Okong’o
