In view of the shortages and difficulties that community networks are experiencing in their strategies to achieve connectivity, this fibre fellowship programme on Planning, Design and Deployment of Fibre Infrastructure was proposed to members of community-centered initiatives in Kenya for capacity building on optical fiber as a technical alternative for access to the internet.
In the week from 6 to 12 October, 16 fellows embarked on the first step of the proposal, sharing six days of intensive training offered at the African Advanced Level Telecommunications Institute (AFRALTI) in Nairobi, Kenya. The training was coordinated by Tanda Community Network, in partnership with APC, Rhizomatica and 48 percent.org.
The training covered theoretical knowledge on this technology, such as the types of fibre, their advantages, challenges and costs, and discussions from the perspective and experiences of community networks. It also included hands-on activities, from site survey to cable preparation to splicing to monitoring and maintenance, with a final test certified by the Fibre Optic Association. The next steps will include mentorships and guidance for fellows and communities involved in developing their own strategies for their community driven connectivity initiatives
This photo journey shared by the coordination team of the workshop provides a glimpse into this first stage of the training experienced by these fellows invited to share this theoretical and practical learnings with their communities.