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Local people build the network—and carry the knowledge forward.

AthiCN’s strongest impact is not only infrastructure. It is the skills, confidence and shared capacity that remain in the community after each project.

AthiCN community member receiving a fibre-optics training certificate at AFRALTI

Community of practice · Success story

One week of fibre training created skills that stayed in the community.

In 2024, the Association for Progressive Communications supported a training fellowship for selected Kenyan community networks at AFRALTI. AthiCN sent a young community member at a time when the local team had no fibre-optic installation skills.

He returned to Igembe South and applied what he had learned. He helped connect Kiraone Market largely through fibre, then transferred the skill to other local youth. Although he later joined college, the network continues to be maintained because the knowledge did not leave with one person.

Why this mattersPeer learning became practical infrastructure, local employment experience and a continuing pool of community technicians.

Capacity that compounds

More than 100 community members trained.

Across technical training and digital literacy activities, AthiCN has helped rural residents gain practical skills for network installation, digital participation and local problem-solving.

AthiCN community technicians installing wireless infrastructure in a rural tea-growing area

From first exposure to community capability

Training has included wireless networking, fibre optics, tower and cabinet work, digital literacy, local content and practical support for connected institutions. The approach is deliberately hands-on so that knowledge can be used and passed to peers.

Technicians able to install and maintain local links
Peer learning through the Association of Community Networks in Kenya
Continuous capacity support from APC and other movement partners
Digital literacy that helps residents use connectivity meaningfully

Riaki Primary School connected within the AthiCN coverage area

Education

A public school gains a dependable digital doorway

Free school internet supports teacher preparation, communication and access to online learning resources.

Digital health

Connectivity supports access to health services

Connected facilities provide practical access points for digital health information, reporting and Social Health Authority services.

AthiCN community youth participating in practical technical and digital skills training

Practical skills

Local technicians turn training into reliable service

Wireless is the main access technology, while fibre is used where it is practical. Community technicians learn both so they can choose and maintain the right solution.

AthiCN engaging farmers and community members on climate information

Climate and local content

Communities tell their stories in Kimeru

Locally hosted climate and agriculture information helps farmers access useful knowledge in a language and format rooted in their community.

Local economy

Internet becomes part of everyday market life

Affordable connectivity supports communication, digital payments, customer service and business confidence.

Community network practitioners meeting for peer learning

Movement building

Local action connected to a wider movement

AthiCN is a founder member of the Association of Community Networks in Kenya and part of a broader global movement for community ownership, internet freedom and digital inclusion.

Projects are impact

See the work behind the numbers.

These project pages document infrastructure, technical learning and climate resilience work implemented with community and partner support.

Internet infrastructure