ISPs Warn Proposed Internet Metering Law Will Raise Costs and Threaten Privacy

Internet service providers (ISPs) in Kenya have raised concerns over the Kenya Information and Communications (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which proposes mandatory internet usage metering similar to utilities like electricity and water.

The bill would require telcos and ISPs, including Safaricom, Liquid Telecom, Zuku, Poa Internet, and Jamii Telkom, to assign unique 'internet meter numbers' to subscribers. They would need to track and invoice customers based on actual data consumption and submit this detailed usage data to the government.

Cost Implications and Technical Challenges

ISPs warn that implementing such systems would demand significant investments in advanced network management technologies like Deep Packet Inspection (DPI). This would drastically increase operational costs, which are likely to be passed on to consumers through higher internet package prices.

Currently, fixed broadband services in Kenya are billed based on speed tiers (e.g., 10 Mbps), offering predictable monthly costs. Switching to volume-based billing, common in mobile data, would make costs less predictable and potentially more expensive, especially for heavy users such as households and educational institutions.

Privacy and Security Risks

Beyond cost concerns, ISPs and rights groups highlight serious privacy risks. Storing granular subscriber data centrally creates a lucrative target for cyberattacks and data breaches. There are fears that the government could misuse the data to monitor activists, journalists, and political opponents without adequate data protection safeguards.

The International Commission of Jurists has warned that the proposed system could facilitate state surveillance and profiling, undermining online freedoms.

Current Market Landscape

• Safaricom offers fixed broadband starting at Sh3,000 for 15 Mbps.
• Zuku provides 40 Mbps packages at similar prices.
• Poa Internet and Liquid Telecom have more affordable options but also rely on speed-based billing.

Globally, no country has adopted a utility-style internet metering system akin to electricity meters. Most advanced markets use flat-rate unlimited data plans, which offer consumers predictable costs and unrestricted usage.

The bill, championed by Aldai MP Marianne Kitany, aims to increase billing transparency, but ISPs argue it risks raising costs and compromising user privacy without clear benefits.