(ISPs) through a service brand named Jambonet. TKL is currently the sole
provider of Internet backbone facilities and services, offering both uplink and
downlink international connectivity to ISPs through a service brand named
Jambonet.
TKL's license is for an initial period of five years ending 30th June 2004, but
extended for a further three (3) months to allow for the renewal procedures,
subject to performance and compliance with stipulated licensing conditions. The
Commission has received complaints on the quality of service offered by Telkom
Kenya on Jambonet. The Jambonet network has been reported to be prone to
frequent downtimes and outages, oftentimes resulting in heavy losses for ISPs,
corporate entities, individuals and the Government. In addition TKL has on
several occasions been reported to block Internet ports causing the interruption of
Virtual Private Network (VPN) Connections. Given that there are currently no
alternatives in the provision of International access services and bearing in mind
that TKL remains a dominant provider in this area it is imperative that these
services be efficient and reliable. Guided by the Government policy for the sector
it is the intention of the Commission to speedily introduce competition in this
area.
The Commission rules as follows:
o That TKL provide the service on a non-discriminatory and cost oriented
basis and provide a guarantee on the minimum quality of service levels
including bandwidth, within thirty (30) days from the date this ruling.
o In addition sufficient notice, of not less than one (1) month, should be
given for tariff changes both to the Commission and consumers guided by
the provisions of the licence and regulations.