Safaricom Expands 5G Coverage to 21 Additional Counties

Safaricom has expanded its super-fast fifth-generation (5G) network coverage to 28 towns across Kenya’s 21 counties, allowing its customers to enjoy faster connectivity for both their homes and businesses.

The move expands the number of towns and counties covered by Safaricom’s first commercial use of 5G in October last year, indicating the telco’s aggressive push to expand its data business as part of efforts to counter slow growth in voice call revenue.

Safaricom listed Nairobi, Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado, Kisumu, Mombasa, Kisii, and Kakamega as having access to the network when it first launched it last year.

Kilifi, Kwale, Nakuru, Laikipia, Uasin Gishu, Garissa, and Kericho are now included in the new extensions.

“The 5G bundles are personalised based on usage, and are available on Tunukiwa via MySafaricom App, Safaricom.com, and USSD *444# or *544#,” said Safaricom.

Peter Ndegwa, the chief executive of the telco, emphasized the significance of expanding 5G coverage, saying it is essential for enabling users to explore new internet-powered opportunities.

“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 Ndegwa.

Three 5G experience centers have been established in Nairobi by Safaricom in collaboration with the Chinese tech company Huawei in an effort to give Kenyans a taste of the capabilities of 5G.

The services offered at Safaricom’s Village Market, The Hub, and Buruburu Shops include speed-testing booths, virtual reality gaming areas, and smart home and business capability displays.

The telecom was forced to switch to Wi-Fi after its initial 5G service rollout plan was slowed down by expensive 5G smartphones.