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Telkom has recently unveiled 200 new 4G sites within Nairobi and environs, in a bid to cater for the growing demand on data.
John Barorot, Telkom’s Chief Technology, and Information Officer said, “Over the last year, since we launched our 4G network, we have recorded a steady rise in its uptake, accounting for 20 percent of the total data traffic in Nairobi. With the new sites going live, we expect continual growth, driven by current users and new users joining our network.”
The new sites raise the total number of 4G sites in the city owned by Telkom to 300. The move is expected to enhance Telkom’s overall 4G coverage network within the city. To enjoy the 4G experience, subscribers need to have a 4G compatible device and a 4G-enabled SIM card.
“Current market trends have seen the rise in 4G compatible and smartphone use in the country. Add this to the fact that all our new SIMs are 4G enabled and we have an opportunity to monetize mobile-data, based on market demands while enriching the customer experience,” adds Mr. Barorot.
The addition of these 4G sites runs parallel to the larger countrywide network expansion and densification program that seeks to increase Telkom’s capacity in handling mobile-data traffic, to match growing customer demand. “Our long-term goal is to build a holistic network,” continues Mr. Barorot, “Even as we roll out our 4G network, we are also increasing our current capacity on our 3G network while also leveraging existing network elements to improve the user experience. A substantial proportion of our total data traffic is on 3G which makes it a pivotal growth engine for the business.”
The firm has invested north of KSh 8 Billion into network expansion and infrastructure rollout over the course of the past two years. This is in addition to their strategic investment into three undersea cables connecting Kenya to Africa and the world, and more than 7,300 kilometers of fiber countrywide.
