NAIROBI: Kenya's mobile operators have been extremely concerned over possible legal action taken against them by customers if they were to turn off their mobile phones as directed by government policy. However, Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki said this week that steps are being taken to ensure companies are not to be prosecuted over turning off users phones that are not registered with the government as per new regulations established this year. Kibai, speaking on Wednesday at the launch of Telkom Kenya's 3G network, also said that telecom operators should look to the rural areas to boost their presence in the country, which is East Africa's largest economy. The president gave praise to the companies in expanding overall penetration in the country to some 11 million Kenyans this year, up from barely three million in 2009. Telkom Kenya's Chief Executive Officer, Mickael Ghossein said they intend to use the new network to firmly position Telkom Kenya as the undisputed market leader in internet services, by offering the most versatile and robust network, to enhance customer experience. “The mobile phone has evolved from not only being a tool for basic communication through voice and text – but as a tool of convenience. We hold the view that the battle for the best operator will only be won through having the right infrastructure and innovation to come up with the most suitable range of solutions that meet customer needs effectively. Orange has already taken the pole position on these fronts,” said Ghossein. BM