European Union marks connection of 363 schools to Internet under Kenya Last Mile Connectivity project

The milestone highlights efforts to close Kenya's digital divide, as despite the country's rapidly growing digital economy and an estimated 27 million internet users, significant gaps in connectivity persist between urban and rural areas, particularly in public primary schools.

The visit formed part of the continued rollout of the European Union's Digital Economy Package for Kenya under the Global Gateway strategy, and comes as the European Union and Kenya mark 50 years of diplomatic relations in 2026, underscoring a long standing partnership focused on inclusive development and future ready investments.

Launched in October 2023, the LCMS project is a central pillar of the EU's support to Kenya's digital transformation. Supported through a KES.1.48 billion (EUR 9.8 million) EU contribution in partnership with UNICEF, the ICT Authority, the Ministries of Education, Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, and civil society organizations, the project aims to connect 1,000 public primary schools across 14 counties to sustainable and reliable Internet to enable learners, including children with disabilities, to access high quality, digitally enabled education aligned with the Competency-Based Education curriculum.

UNICEF Kenya / Lucas Odhiambo 2026

As of December 2025, 363 schools have been connected, benefiting more than 277,000 learners with access to digital content, virtual laboratories and online learning platforms. About 2,800 children with disabilities are now benefiting from inclusive digital resources, while over 4,400 teachers have begun integrating digital tools into classroom instruction, with 405 teachers receiving training on ICT use to enhance learning.

The EU Delegation was led by Myriam Ferran, Deputy Director General for International Partnerships at the European Union, who observed first-hand how connectivity is transforming teaching and learning at Enkasiti Primary School.

Commenting on the milestone, H.E. Henriette Geiger, European Union Ambassador to Kenya, said, "Connecting 363 schools is a significant milestone that shows how strong partnerships and targeted investment can deliver real results for children and teachers. Through Global Gateway, the European Union is committed to ensuring that digital connectivity reaches the last mile, so that no learner is excluded from the opportunities of a modern, digitally enabled education."

During the high-level visit, teachers demonstrated how digital content and virtual science laboratories are enriching subject delivery and strengthening Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning. Learners presented ICT Club activities that highlighted growing digital literacy, creativity and innovation. The school also offered insights into the Client-Hub connectivity model, already operational in Kajiado and Turkana, where a centrally connected "hub school" extends secure, cost-efficient connectivity to surrounding schools. This model is informing national strategies for achieving scalable and sustainable school connectivity across rural and hard-to-reach communities.

UNICEF Kenya / Lucas Odhiambo 2026

UNICEF Kenya Representative Shaheen Nilofer, underscored that Internet connectivity is now contributing to delivering Competency-Based Education, enabling access to digital content, modern assessment tools and virtual laboratories that prepare learners for a fast-changing digital world.

"We are already seeing meaningful improvements in teaching and learning as more schools benefit from digital connectivity. Yet, with only an estimated 30 per cent of Kenya's 23,400 public primary schools online, many children in underserved areas remain at risk of being left behind," said Dr. Nilofer. "The EU's generous support, combined with our strong partnership with the Government and other stakeholders, will help close the digital divide by empowering learners, enhancing digital skills, and advancing teacher training in online safety. Our partnership can provide children the opportunity to thrive in an inclusive digital Kenya."

Looking ahead, the LMCS project will expand its reach in 2026 with an additional 637 schools planned for connection. The initiative will also support the rollout of a National Network Operations Centre with the ICT Authority to improve monitoring and sustainability of school connectivity; expand virtual labs, digital skills programmes and teacher training; roll out online safety modules for learners, teachers and parents; and activate community digital hubs that will allow connected schools to serve as centres of digital access and innovation for surrounding communities.

About European Union

The European Union is Kenya's long standing partner in development, trade and political cooperation. In 2026, the European Union and Kenya mark 50 years of diplomatic relations, reflecting a deep and enduring partnership based on shared values, mutual interests and people centred development. Through initiatives such as Global Gateway, the EU supports Kenya's inclusive green and digital transformation, working closely with the Government of Kenya, civil society and international partners to deliver sustainable impact.

About Global Gateway

Global Gateway is the European Union's investment strategy to strengthen smart, clean and secure connections in digital and other sectors. It supports inclusive, green and digital transformation by addressing the digital divide and strengthening partner countries' integration into the global digital ecosystem.

About UNICEF

UNICEF works in some of the world's toughest places, to reach the world's most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.

For more information about UNICEF and its work, visit unicef.org
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