Social media giant Facebook has partnered with Internet Service Provider (ISP) Surf to provide affordable high-speed Wi-Fi internet connections to Kenyans.
The service will be delivered to the users in the form of Wi-Fi hotspots, known as Surfspot hotspots, located in public spaces. Currently, these hotspots are only available in selected regions within the Nairobi city. To use the internet, a user will have to purchase internet package, whose payment can be made via the mobile money service M-Pesa; there is no transaction fee charged.
The internet packages can also be purchased from the Surf website or any other authorized dealer. In a statement, Facebook said, “With Express Wi-Fi, we’re working with carriers, internet service providers, and local entrepreneurs to help expand connectivity to understand locations around the world.”
Facebook adds their partnership will help enable local entrepreneurs to provide internet access services to their neighbors and thus earn a steady income. The dealers also use software provided by Facebook to help users connect to the internet.
Outside Kenya, Express Wi-Fi is also in Uganda, with Nigeria and India said to follow soon.
