In a move set to increase access to information and communications technologies to those in rural areas through local community libraries, the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK) in partnership with the Kenya National Library Services (KNLS) Thursday launched an E-Resource Center at the Werugha Community Library in Taita Taveta County.
According to CCK Board Chairman, Ngene Ben Gituku, “As the ICT sector regulator, CCK is mandated by law to ensure universal access to ICT services. We are strongly committed to entering into collaborative arrangements and partnerships with other institutions to ensure that this goal is met.”
The Werugha E-Resource center will give access to about 200,000 users from the surrounding community, 50percent being students.
CCK injected Ksh 20 million into the project for acquisition and installation of furniture, computer hardware and software at the libraries operated by the KNLS. CCK also added 14 million Kenya Shillings towards the cost of internet connectivity at the centres for two years.
According to the two state agencies the E-Resource Centres project will provide access to ICT services and act as capacity building opportunities for rural communities.
The CCK and KNLS have also launched nine similar projects in various community libraries around the country in areas such as Murang’a, Laikipia, Mwingi, Lusumu in Kakamega, Lagam in Elgeyo Marakwet, Mandera, Habasweini in Wajir, Dzitsoni in Kilifi and Ukunda in Kwale.
