Am not sure if FB Altitute connectivity Infrastructure (its equivalent version of Google Balloons) is active in Kenya, would be good to know.

But I think the Google guys resolved the regulatory challenge by partnering with an existing licensed operator (TKL), so perhaps that is the route FB may go or has gone?

On Freebasics, most listers here may not know it, but it is quite active in Kenya through partnerships with Safaricom and I think Airtel. Many low income groups can access FB content without incurring data charges.

The question has always been whether giving free access to one content provider disadvantages the others in the same sapce, sort of a positive discrimination effect. In other words is FB getting undue advantage through this product?

Hope to hear from them.

walu.







On Saturday, September 19, 2020, 08:03:05 AM GMT+3, Kelvin Kariuki via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:


Happy Saturday!

It’s a Wrap! We are so grateful to everyone that has contributed to these conversations so far. Today we end with the “Connectivity” topic and any other concern you might like to raise that might not have perfectly fitted in any of the topics we’ve discussed.


FB is involved in infrastructure projects that go beyond digital content and potentially competes with traditional Telco providers licensed to provide telco infrastructure. Share your comments, experiences, and challenges with regard to Facebook Services along the following themes:

a) Have you ever experienced or used the FB High Altitude Connectivity Infrastructure?

b) Have you ever experienced or used the FB FreeBasic Product which allows users to connect to FB without incurring data costs?

c) Do you think these two initiatives bring regulatory concerns that touch on completion, customer lock-in and others?

 

Looking forward to your input! Have a relaxing weekend!

 

Regards,

Tr. Karis

Walu

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