Safaricom has extended its 5G network to 21 counties across Kenya. The total number of towns covered now stands at 28. There has been a slow uptake in the 5G network due to the high cost of gadgets that support the network.
The move grows the number from 11 towns in eight counties covered when Safaricom first rolled out commercial use of 5G in October last year, pointing to an aggressive push by the telco to expand its data business as part of efforts to counter slow growth in voice calls revenue.
“The 5G bundles are personalized based on usage, and are available on Tunukiwa via MySafaricom App, Safaricom.com, and USSD *444# or *544#,” said Safaricom in a statement on Monday.
Counties covered so far are:
- Nairobi
- Kiambu
- Machakos
- Kajiado
- Kisumu
- Mombasa
- Kisii
- Kakamega.
- Kilifi
- Kwale
- Nakuru
- Laikipia
- Uasin Gishu
- Garissa
- Kericho
- Marsabit
“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,” said Peter Ndegwa, the CEO of Safaricom.
Advantages of 5G Network
Emerging 5G networks feature lower latency, higher capacity, and increased bandwidth compared to 4G. These network improvements will have far-reaching impacts on how people live, work, and play all over the world. Emerging 5G networks feature lower latency, higher capacity, and increased bandwidth compared to 4G.
Mobile phone users may enjoy fast download rates thanks to 5G technology, and Upload rates are not much shorter than 100 Mbps compared to 4G. Furthermore, mobile phones need better battery technology for a 5G connection. Many phone owners report that when using 5G, their handsets become hotter.
The cost of gadgets is still a major hindrance for people to access the 5G network. However, Safaricom says that at least 400,000 Kenyans have 5G-enabled phones.
