By Dhahabu Writer
Mombasa’s technology and cultural community is set to benefit from SwahiliPOT, a new innovation hub, a creation of submarine cable operator SEACOM, Cisco Systems and the National Museums of Kenya (NMK).
The project, which is the brainchild of the Ministry of Information and Communications through the ICT Authority, will be located within land adjacent to Fort Jesus.
SwahiliPOT will be set up in an office space donated by the NMK and will encompass an outdoor amphitheater area for events hosting.
The government seeks to enhance the quality of work being produced by Mombasa’s creative community and position the coastal city as an emerging technology and lifestyle centre.
“Mombasa has been a pivotal part of SEACOM’s business since we established a point of presence here. We wanted to give back to the local community by providing a service where they can experience broadband technology and utilize it to develop business ideas and other income generating projects,”
said SEACOM Managing Director for Kenya Joseph Muriithi.
SEACOM is providing 40Mb of their high-speed Internet Service for free. In addition they will also construct a perimeter wall between its landing station and the Fort to secure the sea side.
SEACOM will also provide hosting services to the hardware which is being provided by Cisco who were brought on board by the ICT Authority. The American technology company will also boost the hub by landscaping the area and providing WIFI hotspot equipment.
“We value the input of a reputable organization such as Cisco who are major players in the technology space. Their gesture is a sign of confidence in Kenya’s position as the beacon of technology in Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Mr Muriithi.
The project was announced by ICT Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru – who toured the site which is run by NMK – on Monday 21.
