As the country's biggest communication company, Safaricom, starts putting the cutting-edge 5G network into commercial use, the company is likely to face financial problems.
After testing the high-speed internet services starting in March of last year, the operator introduced its 5G network to users on Thursday.
Even though the price of 5G devices is expected to go down in the coming years, the introduction still pointed out how expensive next-generation internet access is.
Users who want to link their houses to the 5G network, for example, will need to pay Ksh.25,000 for a 5G router in addition to Ksh.5000 for installation.
This comes before buying data bundles, which start at Ksh. 3,499 for a 10MBPS package and Ksh. 14,999 for a 100MBPS connection.
However, the provider claims that it will use financing options to enable users to acquire essential 5G gadgets, such as 5G-capable smartphones.
"The expensive cost of the devices is a major factor in the poor adoption of 5G smartphones. The CEO of Safaricom Plc, Peter Ndegwa, said, "We will continue to engage with our partners who provide devices and utilize our pay-as-you-go device financing options like Lipa Mdogo to make smartphones accessible."
Owners of 5G-capable devices must wait until December to get packages designed specifically for the new network.
Only one in three Kenyans now possess a 4G device, indicating low ownership of gadgets with access to high-speed internet.
Still, Safaricom has made progress in connecting 5G devices to its network. It now has 200,000 5G devices connected to its network.
The 5G network will supplement Safaricom's high-speed fiber network by providing consumers with a low-latency, high-speed internet connection.
This action demonstrates both our dedication to continually providing our clients with the most cutting-edge technology and our strategic goal of enabling digital lifestyles, said Mr Ndegwa.
Nairobi is now served by 35 5G stations operated by Safaricom. Other counties include Kisumu. Mombasa, Kisii, and Kakamega
By March 2023, the operator hopes to have 200 5G locations. The owner anticipates having connections to at least 10,000 households and businesses at this time.
Franklin Ocharo, who is in charge of fixed data at Safaricom, says that 5G would let the company bring high-speed internet connections to areas that aren't covered by its current fiber network, which has reached more than 400,000 homes and is connected to more than 200,000 of them.
"We have learnt through the pilot that 5G is necessary to power homes and businesses. There are areas that need speeds comparable to fiber, but we do not have coverage there. We see possibilities like this, " he continued.
In contrast to the typical internet speed of 30 to 50 Mbps for the 4G network, the 5G network offers rates between 250 and 350 Mbps.
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