Airtel Networks Kenya Limited has declared that by the end of 2023, it will have deployed an extra one hundred 5G sites across the nation.
Customers of Airtel will see an improvement in their internet connectivity as a result of this move because the 5G network will provide faster speeds, lower latency, and more seamless connections to many devices than ever before.
Airtel’s 5G coverage will increase from 180 wards to 221 wards and from 15 counties to 32 counties as a result of the deployment of new 5G sites.
The counties that will benefit from the 5G network are Nairobi, Kiambu, Mombasa, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Machakos, Kisumu, Kilifi, Kajiado, Kwale, Kakamega, Bomet, Embu, Homabay, Kericho, Kirinyaga, Laikipia, Meru, Busia, Garissa, Migori, Bungoma, Muranga, Kisii, Kitui, Makueni, Taita Taveta, Tana River, Nyamira, Nyeri, Siaya, and Nyandarua.
“The 5G network is more than just faster internet; it is about connecting people, businesses, and communities in ways that were once unimaginable,” said Airtel Kenya Managing Director, Ashish Malhotra.
“Our commitment to innovation and connectivity remains unwavering, and we’re excited to be a part of this new era of possibilities.”
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Previous steps taken by Airtel Kenya
On July 6, 2023, Airtel inaugurated its 5G network in Kenya with a total of 372 sites, and the company has committed to progressively expanding its 5G presence throughout the nation.
Airtel has made 5G services available to Kenyans by providing them with 5G home broadband routers that can be used in both households and businesses. This comes as the number of subscribers who have access to 5G devices continues to rise.
Businesses of any size can gain access to the 5G network by utilizing the 5G routers and purchasing an unlimited plan that begins at 3,500 Kenyan Shillings per month.
The 5G packages include 5G Unlimited 10Mbps for a monthly fee of Ksh 3,500, 5G Unlimited 30Mbps for a monthly fee of Ksh 5,500, and 5G Unlimited 50Mbps for a monthly fee of Ksh 7,500, respectively.
A volume-based data package for an individual residence can be purchased for a total cost of 2,999 Kenyan Shillings.
When compared to earlier generations of wireless technology, 5G networks promise to have faster speeds, lower latency, and more capacity.
More steps taken to improve connectivity
In June of 2022, Airtel completed the purchase of the 2600MHz spectrum. The network architecture of Airtel Kenya extends over 3,200 sites, which covers an astonishing 89 % of the country and all 47 counties.
“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,” Airtel Africa Chief Commercial Officer, Anthony Shiner said at the time.
In addition, the telecommunications company has begun offering 5G Home Broadband packages to commercial clients, such as Enterprise and SME Unlimited Packages.
The rates for these plans range from KES 3,500 to KES 7,500, and they come with a variety of download speeds to choose from, including 10Mbps, 30Mbps, and 50Mbps. Additionally, Airtel introduced volume-based data plans for individual houses, with prices beginning at 2,999 Kenyan Shillings. On the new 5G network, customers were able to keep using the same 4G packages that they had been using previously.