Our network and infrastructure
Our network infrastructure, data centres, distribution infrastructure and software applications are an important part of our financial, manufactured and intellectual capitals, and a source of competitive differentiation. Our investment in these aspects of our business is fully aligned with our purpose of transforming lives. It enables us to democratise data through devices, network coverage and use cases, making information freely available for anyone to use intelligently and responsibly.
Overview
Despite the high level of mobile telephone penetration in Kenya, a large section of the population, unable to afford 3G and 4G devices, still relies on 2G feature phones. Nevertheless, with our strategic drive to become a purpose-led technology company, and our commitment to digital transformation, we continue to progress our investment in infrastructure that ultimately will benefit and empower not only our customers, while at the same time delivering value for our shareholders.
Our 4G network covers 97% of the Kenyan population, while our 3G and the 2G network covers 98% and 98%, respectively. During the year under review, we continued to accelerate 4G coverage, upgrading 1,100 sites to 4G, increasing coverage to an additional 97% of the population.
In addition, as we drive digitisation for our customers, we have to date laid 10,880km of fibre and connected more than 193,059 homes and 18,886 enterprise customers.
Quantifying our investment
During the year, we continued to invest in our network and systems, with our capital additions for the year standing at KShs 49.78 billion. Enhancement of our network in support of traffic growth, coverage and experience, remains an important part of our purpose-led strategy, with investment in our capacity aimed at meeting the evolving needs of our digital consumers.
Looking ahead
It is anticipated that the majority of Kenya’s mobile connections will be on 5G by 2029 and our network masts are prepared for this growth. In the short term, we plan to expand the number of 5G sites to more than 200 locations across nine towns over the next year.
Nevertheless, in the medium-term, we still recognise a significant opportunity to increase penetration of 4G devices before scaling to 5G rollout.
