Airtel Kenya Launches 5G Network with 370 Active Sites
By The COAST Reporter
Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com
A leading telecommunications, Airtel Kenya (AK) and mobile money services provider, has launched its highly anticipated Airtel 5G network in the country.
Attending the launch, were Ministry of Information, Communication and The Digital Economy CS Eliud Owalo and CA Director General Ezra Chiloba.
Launched in Nairobi, the AK managing director Ashish Malhotra stressed the company’s dedication to enabling seamless connectivity by unveiling this cutting-edge 5G network.
Currently, AK’s has 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.”
According to him Airtel 5G will revolutionize various sectors, such as smart cities, education, healthcare, agri-tech, transport systems, entertainment, and more, shaping the future of Kenya.
With this 5G network, customers can now enjoy 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.
Again, businesses that rely heavily on data for web-based applications and virtual meetings will experience greater connectivity.
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 will 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 at Sh3,500, 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.
This 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.
“Our 5G launch positions Airtel at the forefront of a technological revolution that exemplifies our dedication to progress, innovation, and empowering our people,” said Malhotra.
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,” said Anthony Shiner, chief commercial officer of Airtel Africa.
Currently, Airtel Kenya’s network infrastructure spans over 3,200 sites, providing coverage to 89 per cent of all the 47 counties.
The company will be rolling out 650 additional sites this year of which 50 per cent have been deployed.
This is AK’s largest network expansion rollout in any given year.