Kenyans Could Pay More for Internet Under Proposed Pay-As-You-Use Plan

Kenyans could soon have to pay for internet based on the amount of data they use if a proposal before Parliament is approved.

The proposal is being considered by the National Assembly Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation as part of the Kenya Information and Communications (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

During a meeting with the committee on Thursday, August 13, a telecommunications company raised concerns about the proposed system.

The company said requiring internet providers to charge customers for every unit of data they consume could increase the cost of internet services.

According to the provider, internet companies would need to invest in new systems and technology to accurately track and bill customers based on their data usage.

These additional costs, the company warned, could eventually be passed on to consumers through higher internet prices.

The proposal could also affect the unlimited and speed-based internet packages currently offered by providers.

Such packages are widely used by households, businesses, schools and people working from home because they offer predictable monthly costs.

Internet providers have therefore asked Parliament to allow customers to continue choosing between different billing options.

They also want consumers to have clear information about how much data they use without making pay-as-you-use billing compulsory.

Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie said views from stakeholders would help the committee identify areas that may need changes before making its recommendations to Parliament.

The committee is expected to consider the concerns as it reviews the proposed amendments.

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