Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks As Enablers of County Innovation Ecosystems: A Policy and Technical Framework for Kenya

Wilfred G. Gikaru^1,

¹ICT and Engineering, Zetech University, Nairobi, Kenya

Cite this paper:
Wilfred G. Gikaru. Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks As Enablers of County Innovation Ecosystems: A Policy and Technical Framework for Kenya. Journal of Computer Networks. 2026; 14(1):1-5. doi: 10.12691/jcn-14-1-1

Abstract

Kenya’s county governments are expected to support inclusive digital transformation, innovation, education, health services and local enterprise development. However, fixed broadband, mobile coverage, reliable electricity, affordability and institutional capacity remain unevenly distributed. This paper examines how Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks (MANETs) could complement existing telecommunications infrastructure and support county innovation ecosystems, with Kiambu County used as a contextual case. Rather than presenting unexecuted simulations or interviews as completed findings, the paper develops a policy-technical adoption framework grounded in a review of MANET architecture, routing protocols, performance considerations, digital inclusion, county planning and innovation policy. The proposed framework integrates needs assessment, regulatory compliance, community participation, technical design, energy planning, cybersecurity, capacity building, pilot implementation and evaluation. A staged pilot is proposed for education, health information exchange and microenterprise support. The paper argues that MANETs should be treated as complementary and context-dependent infrastructure, not as a universal substitute for fibre, cellular or other backbone networks. The framework provides a basis for subsequent stakeholder research and NS-3-based technical evaluation.

Keywords:
Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks MANET county innovation ecosystems digital inclusion ICT policy Kenya Kiambu County AODV DSDV community networks

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