Safaricom has significantly expanded its 5G coverage, now reaching select towns in 35 counties. This effort aims to provide customers in these areas with seamless access to high-speed internet for both their mobile needs and their homes or businesses. To promote the uptake of 5G, Safaricom has taken steps such as reducing the price of 5G Wi-Fi routers by 60%, bringing the cost down to KES 9,999 from KES 25,000 for cash customers. Additionally, nearly half a million eligible customers can opt for an 18-month contract and receive the router for free.
In line with this expansion, Safaricom has enhanced its 5G Wi-Fi offerings, introducing new plans for both home consumers and businesses. Home consumer packages now include 400GB for KES 3,499, 800GB for KES 5,999, and 1500GB for KES 9,999.
Meanwhile, the business segment is catered to with unlimited packages starting at KES 4,000 for 10 Mbps, tailored to meet the always-on connectivity needs of various businesses.
Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom PLC, expressed the company’s excitement for the possibilities that 5G technology brings. The expansion of 5G coverage not only improves Kenya’s internet network but also opens up opportunities for underserved communities, healthcare services, and small businesses seeking new avenues for growth.
Safaricom made history in October 2022 by being the first to launch 5G services in Kenya. Since then, the coverage has extended to select towns across 35 counties, including recent additions like Bomet, Busia, Isiolo, Kitui, and others. To showcase the transformative potential of 5G, Safaricom, in collaboration with Huawei, has established three 5G experience centers in Nairobi. These centers offer virtual reality gaming zones, demonstrations of smart capabilities for homes and businesses, and speed-testing booths.
To support the 5G ecosystem, Safaricom has introduced 5G data bundles for its 500,000 5G smartphone users, as well as a free 5GB bundle for all new 5G customers. Information on available 5G zones and Wi-Fi can be found on the company’s official website and through the MySafaricom App and USSD *544#.
Over the years, Safaricom has made substantial investments in its network infrastructure. Currently, its 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G services cover 97% of Kenya’s population, while its fiber network has passed over 450,000 homes and businesses, solidifying its commitment to bridging the digital divide and promoting connectivity across the country.