by Mathew Ndeti
Airtel joins the 5G bandwagon promising seamless connectivity,
Airtel Kenya has officially launched its 5G network which promises its customers ultra-fast real-time connectivity for activities like multiplayer online gaming, live streaming, content uploads and downloads, as well as ultra-reliable wireless home internet. Furthermore, businesses that rely heavily on data for web-based applications and virtual meetings will experience greater connectivity.
Speaking in Nairobi, Mr. Ashish Malhotra, the Managing Director of Airtel Kenya, underscored the company’s dedication to enabling seamless connectivity by unveiling this cutting-edge 5G network with over 370 active 5G sites strategically positioned in 16 counties and 180 wards nationwide.
“Today marks a significant milestone as we proudly introduce our 5G network, a state-of-the-art infrastructure that provides data speeds up to 10 times faster than 4G, incredibly low latency, and the ability to seamlessly connect billions of devices. Airtel 5G will revolutionize various sectors, such as smart cities, education, healthcare, Agri-tech, transport systems, entertainment, and more, shaping the future of Kenya,” he said.
The 5G network rollout is part of Airtel Kenya’s comprehensive infrastructure growth plan, which aims to enhance seamless connectivity for all its products and support Kenya’s digital innovation and inclusivity.
Anthony Shiner, Chief Commercial Officer of Airtel Africa, said, “Our 5G launch positions Airtel at the forefront of a technological revolution that exemplifies our dedication to progress, innovation, and empowering our people. The benefits that will transform businesses and industries will create opportunities to further unlock Kenya’s potential. Together, let us build a future where connectivity knows no bounds, innovation knows no limits, and Kenya stands tall as a digital powerhouse.”
Mr. Eliud Owalo, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Information, Communication, and The Digital Economy said, “We are doing everything possible within both the regulatory and technical environments to make our country Africa’s silicon savanna. We are building the infrastructure, equipping our people with the digital skills, and sensitizing them to the reality that is the digital revolution. We are also addressing the affordability of access and protecting both critical infrastructure and personal privacy, as well as data security.”
The Airtel 5G network will be concentrated in specific zones, including highly populated residential areas, malls, hospitals, city centers, and central business districts. These designated 5G zones will be clearly marked for customers’ convenience in identifying and accessing faster internet speeds. To connect to the 5G network, customers will need compatible devices.
Aligned with Airtel’s commitment to providing affordable services, the company is pleased to offer 5G Home Broad Band for Enterprise and SME Unlimited Packages for as low as Sh3,500 per month. The 5G packages include 5G Unlimited 10Mbps atSh3,500, 5G Unlimited 30Mbps at Sh5,500 and 5G Unlimited 50Mbps at Sh7,500 per month, respectively. There are also volume-based data plans for individual homes available from Sh2,999.
Kenya is Airtel’s second market on the African continent to have the 5G network live. Currently, the company boasts a customer base of 17.5 million prepaid subscribers and over 95,000 postpaid subscribers.
Currently, Airtel Kenya’s network infrastructure spans over 3,200 sites, providing coverage to 89 percent of all 47 counties. The company will be rolling out 650 additional sites this year of which 50 percent have been deployed. This is Airtel Kenya’s largest network expansion rollout in any given year.