Why Kenyan internet users face higher bills and privacy risks under proposed law

Kenyan internet subscribers may face increased, less predictable bills and heightened privacy risks if Parliament adopts the proposed changes to how fixed broadband services are billed. The Kenya Information and Communications (Amendment) Bill, 2025, aims to introduce unique "internet meter" numbers for subscribers, requiring ISPs to monitor usage and generate bills based on consumption levels.

This shift from the current fixed-price model, which charges customers a monthly fee based on connection speed, would see ISPs investing millions in new technology to implement the metering system. While the Bill's sponsor, Aldai MP Marianne Kitany, intends to enhance transparency in internet pricing and protect consumers from unfair billing, rights groups are deeply concerned about potential privacy breaches and cybersecurity threats.

The proposed system's requirement to collect detailed subscriber-level usage information and retain it for extended periods raises questions about data protection protocols. ISPs warn that the transition could significantly raise consumer costs, particularly for heavy users such as families with multiple devices, remote workers, students, businesses, and households streaming video.

The financial burden of implementing the new system is also a concern, with subscribers potentially facing additional charges if consumption exceeds a set allowance. Critics argue that while the Bill intends to address internet pricing concerns and improve transparency, it could inadvertently weaken consumer privacy unless stringent safeguards are put in place.

The proposal presents Parliament with a dilemma: balancing the need for transparent internet billing with the imperative to protect consumers' privacy and prevent potential misuse of their data.