Safaricom Extends 5G Network to 35 New Counties, Drops Router Prices

Safaricom has expanded its 5G coverage to 35 new countries, bringing ultra-fast internet services to its customers.

Bomet, Busia, Isiolo, Kitui, Mandera, Migori, and Tharaka-Nithi are among the devolved units.

Others include Trans Nzoia, Homa Bay, West Pokot, Embu, Kirinyaga, Muranga, and Turkana.

They join a list of counties that were previously connected to the internet, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Uasin Gishu, and Nakuru.

“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 Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa.

“By increasing 5G coverage, we are enhancing Kenya’s best internet network and empowering our customers to start exploring the possibilities of 5G,” Ndegwa added.

The telco has also reduced the price of 5G routers by 60% to Sh9,999 from Sh25,000, making the devices more affordable to customers.

Safaricom will be the first service provider in the country to launch 5G in October 2022.

Safaricom, in collaboration with Huawei, has established three 5G experience centres in Nairobi to allow Kenyans to see how 5G can transform homes and businesses.