Safaricom, the leading mobile service provider in Kenya, has taken a significant step to bring super-fast internet connectivity within reach of its customers by reducing the prices of 5G routers by a whopping 60%. The move, announced on November 1, is aimed at ensuring that more individuals and businesses in 35 counties can benefit from the advantages of 5G technology.
The price of these advanced 5G routers has been dropped from Ksh.25,000 to an incredibly affordable Ksh.9,999. Safaricom’s Chief Executive Officer, Peter Ndegwa, expressed the company’s unwavering dedication to driving digital transformation and making 5G accessible to all.
Mr. Ndegwa emphasized the immense potential of 5G technology to bridge the digital divide in underserved communities, enhancing access to vital services such as healthcare, and sparking economic growth by connecting small businesses to new opportunities. He stated, “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. By increasing 5G coverage, we are enhancing Kenya’s best internet network and empowering our customers to start exploring the possibilities of 5G.”
To further facilitate the adoption of 5G technology, Safaricom is offering eligible customers the option to enter an 18-month contract and acquire the 5G router for free.
Moreover, the expansion of 5G services has led to an increase in Wi-Fi volumes for home consumer packages, presenting customers with a range of data options. Customers can now select from three different data packages: 400GB for Ksh.3,499, 800GB for Ksh.5,999, or 1500GB for Ksh.9,999. Additionally, Safaricom is providing unlimited 5G Wi-Fi packages for businesses starting at Ksh.4,000, providing an always-on connectivity solution tailored to the specific needs of businesses.
Safaricom has also joined forces with Huawei to establish three 5G experience centers. These centers will provide virtual reality gaming zones, smart home and enterprise solutions, and speed-testing booths, giving Kenyans the opportunity to experience the capabilities of 5G firsthand.
In response to the growing number of 5G smartphone users, Safaricom has introduced 5G data bundles, enabling over 500,000 customers to enjoy ultra-fast browsing speeds. New 5G customers can also take advantage of a complimentary 5GB data bundle through the My Safaricom App, making the transition to 5G even more enticing.
5G coverage has now been expanded to select towns in 35 counties, including Bomet, Busia, Isiolo, Kitui, Mandera, Migori, Tharaka-Nithi, Trans Nzoia, Homa Bay, West Pokot, Embu, Kirinyaga, Muranga, and Turkana. These towns join other counties where Safaricom 5G is already available, such as Nairobi, Kiambu, Mombasa, Kisumu, Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, Garissa, Kajiado, Kisii, Machakos, Kakamega, Kilifi, Siaya, Kericho, Kwale, Laikipia, Marsabit, Meru, Narok, Nyeri, and Vihiga.
Safaricom’s commitment to making 5G technology accessible to a wider audience is undoubtedly a significant step towards a more connected and digitally advanced Kenya.
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