NAIROBI, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Kenya has started a trial of digital sound broadcasting services in Nairobi, the country's capital, communications authorities said on Friday.
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), the sector's regulator, announced the milestone as the country celebrated World Radio Day, saying the new technology will enhance radio coverage, lower barriers to entry and unlock new revenue opportunities.
With the new technology, broadcasters will be able to carry multiple services on a single channel, lowering transmission costs and creating space for new entrants, including community broadcasters, the CA said in a statement.
"For consumers, digital radio will mean clearer sound, reduced harmful interference and a wider choice of programming. Listeners will benefit from increased content diversity, including niche, regional and thematic services as well as potential value-added data services," the CA said.
The institution said the new technology will initially complement existing FM services, and no analogue switch-off date has been set, ensuring continuity for all listeners as digital services are rolled out in phases.
With the new deployment, the CA said that Kenya joins a growing community of countries adopting or conducting digital radio trials as the next frontier in sound broadcasting, and will work with regional bodies to support harmonized approaches that enhance interoperability and investments. ■