Kenya’s telecom giant, Safaricom PLC has increased its 5G
coverage to 28 towns across 21 counties, empowering its customers in 5G areas
to enjoy superfast internet connectivity on the move, and for their homes and
businesses.
In a statement issued on Monday, Safaricom said it has
also introduced 5G data bundles to enable its over 400,000 customers using 5G
smartphones to browse at ultra-fast speeds, with typical speeds of 400Mbps to
700Mbps. The 5G bundles are personalised based on usage, and are available on
Tunukiwa via MySafaricom App, Safaricom.com, and
USSD *444# or *544#.
The Chief Executive Officer of Safaricom PLC, Peter Ndegwa
said in the statement that “As a digital lifestyle enabler, we are excited
about a 5G future, which makes it possible to close the digital divide in
underserved communities, provide access to critical services such as healthcare
or spur economic growth by connecting small businesses to new opportunities. By
increasing 5G coverage, we are enhancing Kenya’s best internet network and
empowering our customers to start exploring the possibilities of 5G."
“To enable Kenyans to experience how 5G can transform homes
and businesses, Safaricom, in partnership with Huawei, has set up three 5G
experience centres in Nairobi. The centres, located in Safaricom’s Village
Market, The Hub, and Buruburu Shops, contain virtual reality gaming zones,
showcases of smart-capabilities for homes and enterprises, and speed-testing
booths,” it stated.
In October 2022, Safaricom became the first service
provider in Kenya to launch 5G. Since then, its coverage has increased from 11
towns to 28 towns spread across 21 counties including Nairobi, Kiambu, Mombasa,
Kisumu, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Garissa, Kajiado, Kisii Machakos, Kakamega,
Kilifi, Siaya, Kericho, Kwale, Laikipia, Marsabit, Meru, Narok, Nyeri, and
Vihiga Counties.
Over the years, Safaricom has consistently invested in its
network, with its 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G in aggregate covering 97% of Kenya’s
population, while its fibre network has passed more than 450,000 homes and
businesses.
