GIVNet with Global Innovation Valley

Status: Closed

Country: Kenya

Partner: Global Innovation Valley

Impact goal: 3000 people

About the project

This project aims to bridge the digital divide in the Kakuma and Kalobeyei refugee camps by deploying solar-powered infrastructure that delivers affordable, reliable, high-speed satellite connectivity using renewable green energy. Global Innovation Valley's community-driven model ensures that even the most vulnerable can access the internet. They serve refugees, host communities, learning institutions, and local entrepreneurs through public hotspots, homes, and business connections. By making connectivity affordable and sustainable, they enable access to education, economic opportunities, and essential digital services, fostering inclusive growth and resilience.

Project results

The GIVNet project aimed to expand affordable internet access and strengthen digital inclusion among refugees and host communities.

The project established a community-owned network, installing one micro-network tower, one main network site and four public Wi-Fi hotspots. It also established community ICT hubs equipped with refurbished computers, creating shared spaces for digital learning and access to online services.

The project trained 20 teachers and 50 young people in digital literacy and ICT skills, covering computer basics, internet navigation, online safety, productivity tools and digital entrepreneurship. Community awareness activities promoted responsible internet use and increased understanding of digital opportunities. The project reports reaching approximately 3,000 direct beneficiaries, with more than 10,000 additional people expected to benefit indirectly. By combining connectivity, skills development and community ownership, GIVNet laid the foundation for a more inclusive and sustainable digital network.

Challenges and adaptations

The project faced limited existing digital infrastructure and demand for affordable internet that exceeded the initial network’s coverage and available resources. In response, the team prioritized strategic public access points and designed the infrastructure to allow future expansion. Limited access to personal computers and other digital devices was addressed through community ICT hubs equipped with refurbished computers.

Participants also had varying levels of digital literacy, requiring beginner-friendly training, practical demonstrations, peer learning and individualized support. To support sustainability beyond the grant period, GIVNet incorporated affordable subscription and pay-as-you-go services, strengthened local technical capacity and built partnerships with schools and community organizations. These measures provide a foundation for continued network operation and future expansion.

About the partner

Global Innovation Valley is an organziation located in Kenya, seeking to create a vibrant community where self-organization, connectivity, sustainability, and independence thrive, empowering all individuals to be proactive agents of positive change, shaping a brighter future.

Visit their website here.