In a relentless pursuit to bridge the digital divide in Isiolo County, Woman Representative Mumina Bonaya has taken a decisive step forward by convening a high-stakes follow-up meeting with Paul Kiarge, Director of the Universal Service Fund (USF) at the Communications Authority of Kenya.
The meeting, held on August 7, 2025, underscores Bonaya’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that even the most remote corners of Isiolo are connected to the digital world, unlocking opportunities for education, economic growth, and access to critical services.
A Vision for Digital Inclusion
Bonaya, a vocal advocate for equitable access to technology, has made digital connectivity a cornerstone of her agenda.
Isiolo County, with its vast and often underserved terrain, faces significant challenges in accessing reliable network services. Yet, under Bonaya’s leadership, the region is witnessing transformative progress.
The recent meeting with Kiarge focused on accelerating the implementation of ongoing USF projects, particularly under Phase 4, which targets unserved and underserved sub-locations across the county.
“I’ve been following this process closely from the beginning, and today’s meeting was crucial to push for faster progress where delays have been noted,” Bonaya stated, emphasizing her hands-on approach.
Her determination to hold stakeholders accountable and ensure timely delivery of connectivity infrastructure has positioned her as a champion for Isiolo’s marginalized communities.
Phase 4 USF Projects: A Game-Changer for Isiolo
Bonaya announced that the tendering process for Phase 4 of the USF project has been successfully completed, with contractors now identified to commence construction of network masts in several key sub-locations. These include:
- Rumate
- Burat (Isiolo West)
- Burat
- Ngaremara (Chumviyare and Daaba)
- Korbesa
- Kinna (Rapsu)
- Duma
- Urura
- Bulto Bonsa
- Barambate
- Quri
The construction of these masts is expected to bring reliable network coverage to thousands of residents, enabling access to digital platforms for education, healthcare, and commerce.
Bonaya’s proactive engagement with the Communications Authority has ensured that these projects are moving forward with renewed urgency.
Additionally, Bonaya revealed that six more sub-locations—Leparua, Bulesa, Goda, Biliqo Marara, Belgesh, and Badana—are slated for tendering in the next quarter.
This phased approach reflects her strategic vision to systematically cover all unserved areas, leaving no community behind.
Addressing Challenges Head-On
While the progress is commendable, Bonaya did not shy away from addressing challenges hampering connectivity in certain areas.
She raised concerns about the unexpected shutdown of network services in Malkadaka, caused by a dispute between Telkom and a partner firm. “That issue may take longer to resolve, but it remains on the table,” she assured, signaling her intent to pursue a resolution diligently.
Similarly, delays in Kom and Iress Haa Boru, attributed to previously contracted service providers under Phase 3, have been flagged as a critical concern. Bonaya emphasized that these issues are being addressed with urgency to ensure swift action.
Her ability to confront setbacks transparently while maintaining momentum has earned her widespread respect among constituents.
More Than Just Connectivity
For Bonaya, the mission transcends mere network coverage. “This is not just about phones—it’s about access to education, emergency services, and opportunity,” she declared.
Her vision aligns with the broader goals of Kenya’s Digital Transformation Strategy, which seeks to empower citizens through technology.
By prioritizing connectivity, Bonaya is paving the way for Isiolo’s youth to access online learning, entrepreneurs to tap into e-commerce, and communities to benefit from telehealth and emergency communication systems.
Her efforts are particularly impactful in a region where geographical and infrastructural challenges have historically limited development.
By ensuring that even remote sub-locations like Korbesa and Bulto Bonsa are prioritized, Bonaya is fostering inclusive growth and empowering communities to participate in the digital economy.
A Legacy of Action
Bonaya’s full statement, shared publicly, reflects her hands-on leadership and commitment to transparency:
“This afternoon, I spared my time to meet with Paul Kiarge, Director of the Universal Service Fund at the Communications Authority, to follow up on several network connectivity investments initiated under Phase 4 of USF projects targeting unserved areas of my County.” Bonaya wrote on her social media page.
“I am happy to report that the tendering is concluded, and service providers have been identified to begin construction of network masts in Rumate, Burat (Isiolo West), Burat, Ngaremara (Chumviyare and Daaba), Korbesa, Kinna (Rapsu), Duma, Urura, Bulto Bonsa, Barambate, and Quri. As for Leparua, Bulesa, Goda, Biliqo Marara, Belgesh, and Badana, tendering will happen in the next quarter.”
She went further to express disappointment with the case for Malka Daka where the service was switched off due to wrangles between Telkom and its partner: “Sadly, Malkadaka’s connection has been switched off due to a row between Telkom and their partner, but the issue is under active consideration. For Kom and Iress Haa Boru, delays by contractors have been raised and will be expeditiously settled. #KaziBilaBreak”
A Model for Leadership
Mumina Bonaya’s tireless advocacy for digital inclusion sets a powerful example for leaders across Kenya and beyond.
Her ability to navigate bureaucratic processes, hold stakeholders accountable, and keep the needs of her constituents at the forefront has made her a formidable force in Isiolo’s development landscape.
As the region moves closer to universal connectivity, Bonaya’s legacy as a transformative leader continues to take shape.
With her hashtag #KaziBilaBreak (Work Without Break), Bonaya encapsulates her relentless drive to deliver results. As network masts rise across Isiolo’s sub-locations, so too does the hope of a brighter, more connected future for the county’s residents.
For more updates on Mumina Bonaya’s initiatives and the progress of USF projects in Isiolo, stay tuned to ICBNews.
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