- Airtel Kenya’s network infrastructure covers over 3,200 sites, covering 89 percent of all 47 counties.
- This represents Airtel Kenya’s most extensive network expansion rollout in any given year.
- 4G is still king in Kenya when it comes to the share of Mobile Internet subscriptions
Airtel Kenya has announced the launch of its fifth-generation network (5G) to take advantage of the increasing adoption of 5G devices. Last month, Airtel Kenya announced its intention to expand its network coverage to meet the growing demand for data services in East Africa. With this move, Airtel Kenya joins Safaricom among the network providers that have introduced 5G in the country.
Milestone on Airtel 5G deployment
Airtel Kenya’s Managing Director, Ashish Malhotra, revealed that the telco has more than 370 active 5G sites strategically positioned in 16 counties and 180 wards nationwide. “Today we 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 connect billions of devices seamlessly,” said Malhotra. Despite being the latest technology standard for broadband cellular networks, the number of 5G subscribers in Kenya remains relatively small compared to projected growth.
Mobile Devices Using 5G
Data from the Communications Authority of Kenya Q3 report indicates that 373,573 Kenyans were using 5G technology by the end of March. Airtel’s 5G network is expected to bring significant advancements to various sectors such as smart cities, education, healthcare, agri-tech, transport systems, entertainment, and more, thereby shaping Kenya’s future.
The telco aims to revolutionize online gaming, live streaming, content uploads, and downloads with ultra-fast real-time connectivity through its 5G network. The network will be concentrated in areas such as highly populated residential areas, malls, hospitals, city centers, and central business districts.
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Airtel 5G Coverage Areas
Airtel 5G coverage areas will have clear markings to facilitate easy identification and access to faster internet speeds. Customers will need compatible devices to utilize the 5G network. The 5G network rollout aligns with Airtel Kenya’s comprehensive infrastructure growth plan, which seeks to enhance seamless connectivity for all its services, support digital innovation, and foster inclusivity in Kenya.
The 4G network remains king in Kenya regarding the share of Mobile Internet subscriptions. Close to 22 million Kenyans are on 4G, and uptake has been growing. Airtel Africa’s Chief Commercial Officer, Anthony Shiner, expressed excitement about the 5G launch, stating that it positions Airtel at the forefront of a technological revolution.
He emphasized Airtel’s commitment to progress, innovation, and empowering people, underscoring the transformative benefits that will drive business and industry growth while unlocking Kenya’s potential as a digital powerhouse.
Future expansion Plans
Airtel Kenya’s network infrastructure covers over 3,200 sites, covering 89 percent of all 47 counties. The company plans to deploy an additional 650 sites this year, with 50 percent already operational. This represents Airtel Kenya’s most extensive network expansion rollout in any given year.
