AccessKenya launches web portal

Generation of local internet content is heating up ahead of the landing of the fibre optic cable, as listed internet provider, AccessKenya, unveils a lifestyle website portal to provide information on Kenya.

The website, branded @Home and available on www.home.co.ke, will provide news on the latest events, fashion, best buys in town and on what shapes Kenya.

It is expected to become the primary resource website for finding information about Kenya.

During the launch in Nairobi on Thursday, AccessKenya group managing director Jonathan Somen said the project is a diversification strategy that is expected to become a valuable and profitable division for the group.

“By providing content, we are helping to build demand for our core connectivity services to help build the Kenyan online community. We are hosting the site locally to lead the way in hosting information,” he said.

Kenya has about 3 million internet users and there is need for a Kenyan portal dedicated to local content.

The initiative is a joint venture by AccessKenya and African Laughter.

Elsewhere, national switch provider Kenswitch has entered into an agreement with I&M bank, in a move that will see Visa branded cards accepted at all Kenswitch Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) countrywide.

The value addition for Visa card holders will eliminate the time wasted on queues and facilitate regular travellers, who may not always find their bank ATMs wherever they go.

Kenswitch general manager, George Wainaina, said that under the terms of the agreement, the Kenswitch network of over 200 ATMs in 50 towns across Kenya will now facilitate cash withdrawals and balance enquiry transactions for locally issued and international Visa cards.