On Tuesday, 11th June 2024, Airtel Kenya gave a business update on its network expansion and launched unlimited 5G data plans, aiming to capitalize on the increasing number of users with 5G-capable devices in the country.
In an opening statement, Airtel Kenya Managing Director, Ashish Malhotra, mentioned that there are about 1000 planned sites in the expansion drive to reach all over Kenya's rural areas; 480 sites have been launched so far and 500 sites are projected to be launched by December 2024.
It is almost one year since Airtel launched its 5G network on July 6th 2023, starting off with 372 sites in 16 counties across 180 wards nationwide. Currently, it has almost doubled its 5G footprint in the country with over 690 sites covering 39 counties across 285 wards.
Counties such as Turkana, Mandera, Kiambu, Siaya, Meru, Kilifi, Nakuru, Kisumu, Narok, Kakamega, Kirinyaga, Bomet, Nyamira, and Nandi have experienced successful network expansion. Meanwhile, regions like Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera have demonstrated a steady positive trend in expansion, with a notable increase despite an initially slow uptake during the period under review.
Airtel's Managing Director, Ashish Malhotra, stated that the goal of the network expansion is to extend coverage to every citizen of the country, irrespective of their region.
“Currently, Airtel network covers 89 per cent of the Kenyan population and is committed to expanding its network infrastructure to achieve 94 per cent coverage by the end of 2024,” Malhotra said.
5G Router + Unlimited Data Plans
"We are pleased to introduce Airtel Kenya's Unlimited Plans," said Ashish Malhotra ."They signify our commitment to providing unmatched connectivity solutions and embody our vision for individuals and businesses empowered by seamless connectivity."
The provider has introduced a 5G Home wireless router, aiming to make it an affordable staple in Kenyan households as part of its network expansion strategy. The goal is to reach up to one million homeowners by year's end. Additionally, the router features a backup battery to ensure uninterrupted service during power outages, setting it apart from competitors who lack such backup systems.
The device is now available at all Airtel shops across the country, priced at KES 2,999, down from its original price of KES 10,000. In comparison, routers from other network providers are priced as follows: Safaricom at KES 3,499, Zuku at KES 2,899, and Faiba at KES 5,000.
Here are the available Airtel 5G Router plans:
Note on the Fair Usage Policy:
- Unlimited 10Mbps – 1TB
- Unlimited 20Mbps – 1.5TB
- Unlimited 30Mbps – 3TB
