Airtel Kenya’s foray into the 5G landscape has marked a significant leap in the country’s telecommunication sector. With a recent announcement, the company has said it is offering free 5G routers along with a complimentary UPS/Power Bank, setting a new benchmark for accessibility and affordability in high-speed internet services.

Airtel’s expansion plan is quite aggressive, aiming to have an additional 100 5G sites across the country by the end of 2023. This expansion will enable Airtel’s 5G service to be available in 32 counties, which is a substantial increase from its current coverage in 180 wards across 15 counties. The target areas include major urban centers such as Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, along with other regions like Kiambu, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, and Machakos. This expansion underlines Airtel’s commitment to enhancing internet connectivity with high speed, low latency, and multi-device connectivity that 5G technology offers.

The Free 5G Router Offer

Airtel’s decision to provide 5G routers for free is a game-changer, especially in comparison to its competitor Safaricom, which initially priced its 5G routers at KES 25,000 with an additional installation fee. Airtel’s approach not only makes 5G technology more accessible but also promotes widespread adoption. Customers are required to visit Airtel shops to subscribe, and a technician will conduct a physical survey and installation at their premises. The pricing of Airtel’s 5G plans is competitive, with unlimited packages starting at Ksh 3,500 per month for 10Mbps and going up to Ksh 7,500 for 50Mbps.

Airtel’s entry into the 5G market in Kenya closely follows Safaricom, which was the first to launch 5G in the country. As of April 2023, Safaricom had expanded its 5G coverage to 21 counties. The competition between these two giants is beneficial for consumers, offering more choices and better services. Airtel’s free router offer is particularly enticing for consumers and positions the company as a value leader in the 5G space.

Airtel Kenya’s recent announcement regarding the free 5G routers and its aggressive expansion plan signals a new era of high-speed internet connectivity in Kenya. The company’s approach is not just about providing faster internet; it’s about connecting people, businesses, and communities in transformative ways. With Airtel’s competitive pricing and expanded coverage, the 5G technology is set to become more accessible, promising a future where more Kenyan citizens, homes, and businesses can tap into the potential of this cutting-edge technology. This move by Airtel is not only a significant step in advancing the country’s digital infrastructure but also a strategic move to capture a larger share of the market in the face of stiff competition.