Africa (Commonwealth Union) _Nairobi City County has launched a sweeping crackdown on unauthorized fiber optic cables mounted on power poles along major highways, citing non-compliance by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and a mounting revenue dispute with Kenya Power (KPLC).
Leading the operation on Argwings Kodhek Road, Nairobi County Revenue Chief Officer Tiras Njoroge emphasized that ISPs had failed to obtain county approval and pay required wayleave fees before installing fiber cables on public infrastructure. Despite multiple warnings and a grace period to comply, the firms continued their operations unchecked.
“These fiber lines are illegal. We have given ISPs ample time to regularize their installations by paying wayleave fees, but they have refused. No authorization, no payment—yet they continue using public infrastructure for private gain,” Njoroge stated.
He warned ISPs against further defiance, stressing that any fiber optic installations lacking proper permits would be removed. The county, he added, is determined to enforce compliance to safeguard its revenue streams and uphold regulatory integrity.
The dispute escalates against the backdrop of a longstanding financial row between Nairobi County and KPLC. According to Njoroge, KPLC owes the county Sh4.8 billion in unpaid dues but has remained uncooperative in settling the debt. The county alleges that, while KPLC profits from leasing its poles to ISPs, it has neglected its own financial obligations.
“KPLC is enabling non-compliant companies to install fiber cables without county approvals while refusing to settle its own debts. This is unacceptable,” he added.
On Monday, County Secretary Godfrey Akumali accused KPLC of exploiting public infrastructure for profit without remitting legally mandated wayleave fees. The county’s frustration culminated in a bold retaliatory move: officials stormed Stima Plaza, disconnected KPLC’s sewerage system, and dumped waste on its premises.
“They cut our power whenever we owe them, yet they sit on billions in unpaid dues. If they want their sewer reconnected, they must pay,” Akumali declared.
The dispute dates back to 2007, when KPLC legally challenged the county’s authority to impose wayleave fees. The High Court dismissed the case, but KPLC has yet to file a formal appeal, delaying resolution. Meanwhile, the county claims KPLC is expanding its commercial operations, such as leasing poles for internet services, while refusing to honor its financial responsibilities.
Tensions are mounting as both parties remain locked in a standoff, leaving the fate of Nairobi’s fiber infrastructure in the balance.
