A while back, internet connectivity in our households seemed like a dream in an otherwise far future. It was considered an expensive requirement and it did not make it to the list of basic needs. However, with the increase in internet connectivity in the world, it is slowly becoming an affordable commodity. Safaricom, this year invested in 38 billion in infrastructure providing over 80% of Kenya’s population with 4G and 3G coverage and 2G coverage to 95% of Kenyans. In line with their spirit of Transforming Lives in Kenya by making homes more fun and great for work and play, they have increased the number of customers who can access fast internet speeds from the comfort of their homes.
The regional rollout is part of a strategy that is set to increase the number of customers who can access fast, reliable and unlimited internet. According to Steve Okeyo, Director of Regional Sales and Operations in Safaricom, ‘“Customers insights reveal that access to reliable and convenient internet in the home has become increasingly critical, and this for us presents a huge opportunity. Our plan is to ensure that every customer that needs fibre connectivity at their homes across the country can access it affordably and at zero installation cost.”
The different fibre to home internet packages will start from as low as Kshs 2,500 per month for speeds of 5Mbps. The Silver package will include 10Mbps which will go for Kshs 3,499, the gold package will be 20Mbps at Ksh. 4,999. The platinum package with go as high as 40Mbps which will go for Ksh. 9,999 per month. If you compare these rates to most rates in the market, there is a considerable affordability factor Safaricom is offering to its customers.
The first phase of the project will start in Kitengela town and its environs which will target 14,000 homes with a plan to reach 40% penetration within the next 3 months. The other towns that will be included in this phase are Athi River, Buruburu, Ngong Road, Runda, Ruaka and Karen. Customers will receive a router and access to credentials that will enable them to have both wireless and LAN access once they register for the service. There will be no requirement to pay installation charges.
The availability of these packages will go a long way in improving people’s lifestyles. In an age where internet connectivity is as important as availability of electricity or water, it is such opportunities that will continue to promote connectivity of people all over the world. It will go far in supporting people who work from home which in most cases requires good internet connectivity. Movie and Series junkies will also be able to stream and download their shows of choice at extremely affordable rates. This is also good news for the customers who would want to undertake any online courses.
The availability of router connections in a household will also provide all members of the household with unlimited and fast internet connection as opposed to using mobile data. If you are an avid user of the internet, then it is highly probable that the total amount of money you use on a monthly basis can easily eclipse the cheapest Safaricom package. It would definitely not hurt to try out the various packages being offered. In time, the packages will also be available to other areas across Nairobi and other parts of the country.
