Safaricom - Kenya

Safaricom (Kenya) uses 2 GSM bands, 1 UMTS band, 2 LTE bands, and 1 5G NR band. Find out if your unlocked phone or mobile device will work with Safaricom (Kenya). See the tables below for details.

Safaricom Kenya is the largest telecommunications provider in Kenya and one of the most profitable companies in the East and Central African region. Here are some key points about Safaricom:

History and Structure

• Founding: Safaricom was founded in 1993 as a department of the Kenya Posts & Telecommunications Corporation, the former monopoly operator. It was incorporated as a private limited liability company in April 1997 and later converted into a public company with limited liability on May 16, 2002.
• Ownership: The Government of Kenya holds a 60% shareholding in Safaricom, making it a state corporation under the State Corporations Act.

Services and Products

• M-PESA: Safaricom is renowned for its M-PESA service, which allows users to transfer money using a mobile phone. This service was launched in 2007 and is available to all members of the public, even those without a bank account or bankcard.
• Network Coverage: Safaricom’s network covers 97% of the Kenyan population with 4G, 98% with 3G, and 98% with 2G. The company has invested heavily in expanding its network, including upgrading 1,100 sites to 4G and laying 10,880 km of fibre.
• Other Services: Safaricom offers a wide range of services including mobile telephony, mobile money transfer, consumer electronics, e-commerce, cloud computing, data, music streaming, and fibre optic services.

Awards and Recognition

• Awards: Safaricom has won several awards, including the Best Mobile Money Service in the GSMA Global Mobile Awards, the Best Broadcast Commercial Category for M-PESA, and recognition in the UN World Business and Development Award.

Sustainability and Infrastructure

• Sustainability: Safaricom has committed to sustainability goals, including reducing energy consumption and promoting energy-efficient technologies. The company aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
• Infrastructure Investment: Safaricom continues to invest in its network and infrastructure, with capital additions of KShs 49.78 billion in 2022. The company is preparing for the transition to 5G, with plans to expand 5G sites to over 200 locations across nine towns.

Security and Innovation

• Security Solutions: Safaricom has implemented security solutions such as ClearSee Analytics and NetworkSecure, which provide anti-malware, anti-phishing, and parental control features. This helps differentiate Safaricom from competitors and enhances customer satisfaction and revenue.

Overall, Safaricom Kenya is a leading mobile network operator that has made significant contributions to the country’s digital transformation and economic growth through innovative services and robust infrastructure.

Frequency Bands

Latest updates