5. TELECOMMUNICATIONS 5.1 INTRODUCTION The Government recognises that the provision of modern telecommunications infrastructure and information networks is key to rapid economic and social development of the country. Telecommunications is a critical component for the development of the ICT industry. The overall Government objective for the sector is to optimise its contribution to the development of the Kenyan economy as a whole by ensuring the availability of efficient, reliable and affordable telecommunication services throughout the country. A key element of the new telecommunication policy is attracting and stimulating investment. 5.2 POLICY OBJECTIVES This policy aims to achieve the following objectives: a) Creating a modern and efficient telecommunications infrastructure in order to position Kenya as a hub of industrial, commercial and financial services in the region; b) Developing an efficient, high capacity national telecommunications infrastructure to enhance service delivery to the public with special emphasis on health and educational institutions; c) Promoting and strengthening research and development, innovation and manufacturing activities in the country; and 24