The communications commission of Kenya turned off analogue broadcasting at 11:59PM yesterday. This follows months of preparation that have at the most time been bumpy with numerous court cases that have delayed the switch off by more than 12 months.
A high court ruling by Justice David Majanja allowed the switch off to continue despite objections from the consumer lobby group COFEK as well as a section of the media.
The areas affected by the phase 1 analogue switch off include: Nairobi County, Kiambu County, Ngong, Ongáta Rongai, Kitengela, Isinya, Kajiado, Athi River, Machakos, Thika, Makuyu, Kigumu Kerugoya, Githunguri and Embu.
“I wish to confirm that Nairobi and its environs are ready for migration. My Ministry is working in close collaboration with the digital set top box vendors and I can confirm the availability of sufficient stock of set top boxes to meet the demand of the market,” cabinet secretary Fred Matiang’I said.
Matiang’i has also urged all analogue broadcasters to adhere to the said deadline terming digital migration a serious matter that calls on regulation to allow efficient use of spectrum.
Credit: CIO
