Airtel Kenya, has kick-started the rollout of its fifth generation Network (5G) as the telco looks to tap onto the growing uptake of 5G devices.
Airtel Kenya had last month announced plans to expand its network coverage to meet the growing demand for data services in the country.
The telco now joins Safaricom among Network providers that have launched 5G in the country.
The Managing Director of Airtel Kenya, Ashish Malhotra said currently the telco has over 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 seamlessly connect billions of devices,” said Malhotra.
Although 5G is the most recent technology standard for broadband cellular networks, the number of subscribers is still tiny in the country compared to the projected uptake.
According to data from the Communications Authority Q3 report there were 373,573 Kenyans using the 5G technology by end of March.
Airtel 5G will revolutionize various sectors, such as smart cities, education, healthcare, Agri-tech, transport systems, entertainment, and more, shaping the future of Kenya.”
The telco says that with the network, will be eyeing to transform the online gaming, live streaming, content uploads and downloads with ultra-fast real-time connectivity.
The Airtel 5G network will be concentrated in specific areas, such as highly populated residential areas, malls, hospitals, city centers, and central business districts.
These areas will be clearly marked as 5G zones to make it easier for customers to identify and access faster internet speeds. To use the 5G network, customers will need devices that are compatible with it.
The rollout of this 5G network is part of Airtel Kenya's comprehensive infrastructure growth plan, which aims to improve seamless connectivity for all its services and support digital innovation and inclusivity in Kenya.
Chief Commercial Officer for Airtel Africa Anthony Shiner, expressed enthusiasm about the 5G launch, stating that it places Airtel at the forefront of a technological revolution.
He emphasized Airtel's commitment to progress, innovation, and empowering people, highlighting the transformative benefits that will drive business and industry growth and unlock Kenya's potential as a digital powerhouse.
Currently, Airtel Kenya's network infrastructure covers over 3,200 sites, providing coverage to 89 percent of all 47 counties.
The company plans to deploy an additional 650 sites this year, with 50 percent already deployed.
This marks Airtel Kenya's largest network expansion rollout in any given year.
