Poa Internet Plans to Expand in Africa After Getting a Grant

Poa Internet, a low-cost internet service provider, has received a grant from an American organization to expand its services in Africa.

The United States Trade and Development Agency grant will be used to conduct a feasibility study to offer one million low-income urban households outside of Kenya.

“Poa Internet’s use of fixed wireless technology is particularly well suited to urban areas. It is also a segment in which U.S. companies are particularly competitive. Our partnership will help increase access to affordable internet and contribute to the vibrant economy of Africa’s cities.” USTDA’s Director Enoh T. Ebong said at the sidelines of the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit.

The USTDA-funded research will include a market assessment of 14 African countries and recommendations for three target markets for Poa Internet’s expansion outside of Kenya.

Following that, the study will provide a detailed market analysis for these markets, including a supply and demand assessment, regulatory and legal analysis, environmental and social impact assessments, and go-to-market recommendations.

“We are delighted to form this partnership with USTDA as we continue with our journey to bring affordable internet access to Africa. This grant from USTDA will support our geographic expansion and goals of advancing inclusive, secure and sustainable connectivity to lower-income urban communities. Poa Internet has been facilitating access to unlimited affordable broadband to underserved lower-income urban communities across Kenya,” Andy Halsall, the Poa Internet CEO.

USTDA has supported over 100 information and communication technology activities in nearly 40 African countries since 1992.

This project complements Access Africa, a USTDA initiative to support the development of inclusive, secure, and long-term ICT infrastructure across Africa, and the US government’s Prosper Africa initiative to significantly increase two-way trade and investment between the US and Africa.

The U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, hosted by President Biden, focuses on how the United States and African nations are strengthening partnerships to advance shared priorities.