Digital migration has finally been effected in Kiambu County with a sizeable number still without set-top boxes, thanks to the three channels still beaming on analogue platform, a thing that has caused more confusion to many residents.
ICT Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i earlier said that all Nairobi analogue signals of all the TV stations were to be switched off by Wednesday midnight, with the move effected as planned, save for three channels that are still operational due to a case in court that is yet to be determined.
However, residents of the impoverished Kiandutu slum in Thika say they are relieved that at least they can view the three channels, with top boxes way beyond their means.
“If the three are switched off, I will have to do without TV for quite a while. I hope they will continue that way. Right now, my budget is very tight,” said Stephen Mbae, a water vendor in the area.
However, Mbae and others' joy could be short-lived if the case in court will be determined soon, and the ruling given in the governments’ favour.
As for now, Kenyans will wait and see how the far-from-over looking battle turns out.