Airtel Kenya has reduced its cross-network call rates from Sh0.58 per minute to Sh0.41 per minute, effective March 1, 2024 following the regulators directive.
The Communications Authority of Kenya had directed the Telecos to cut the mobile termination rates despite protests from Safaricom over the move.
MTRs are the charges levied by a mobile service provider on other telcos for terminating calls on its network.
This means consumers will now enjoy lower calling rates following the ICT regulator's review of Mobile Termination Rates (MTRs)
According to CA the new MTRs and FTRs shall apply from March 2024 for two years and will apply only to local voice tariffs, which means calls originating and terminating within Kenya.
Airtel Kenya, Managing Director Ashish Malhotra expressed optimism of future MTR reductions to increase sector competitiveness.
“Historically, high termination rates have presented challenges for service providers in delivering flexible and affordable call rates across networks. Therefore, we hope that MTRs will continue to decrease for the utmost benefit of consumers,” Malhotra said.
The regulator had indicated that the Short Message Service (SMS) termination rate will remain at Sh0.05 per SMS.
In the statement, the telco said the move taken by the CA in exercising its statutory mandate under the Kenya Information and Communications Act reflects a commitment to fostering affordable communication and seamless connectivity for the benefit of all Kenyan consumers.
“We welcome and endorse the reduction of the Mobile Termination Rates, and as a result, I am happy to announce a reduction in the price points of Weekly and monthly Voice bundles,” said Malhotra.
He further added that in line with our commitment to enhancing communication accessibility, Airtel is actively expanding its network to enhance capacity, coverage, and quality.
From Dec 2023 the telco says it has deployed over 300 new sites, bringing its total tally of sites across the country to over 3700.
Following the move Commenting on the new plans Airtel Kenya, Marketing Director Prisca Murigu, said the firm has had to revise its packages.
