Safaricom Doubles Internet Speeds to 1000Mbps Responding to Starlink’s

Safaricom has introduced a new Sh. 20,000 ($155) Wi-Fi package, delivering lightning-fast internet speeds of 1000Mbps (1Gbps). The move is in response to the growing presence of Elon Musk’s Starlink in the broadband market.

The local telco aims to meet the rising demand for reliable high-speed internet nationwide. This makes it the first ISP in Kenya to offer such expansive gigabit speeds at this price point.

In a bid to enhance user experience, Safaricom has upgraded various internet plans as part of its fibre expansion initiative. For instance, the previously 10Mbps plan has been boosted to 15Mbps for Sh. 3,000 while the 23 Mbps package has increased to 30Mbps.

Users on the 40Mbps plan will now enjoy speeds of 80Mbps, and massive upgrade for the 100Mbps plan brings it to 500Mbps for a cost of Sh.12,500.

Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, emphasized the importance of adapting to the dynamic needs of enterprise customers, stating that the needs of their enterprise customers are changing each day with the growing need to use technology.

The enhanced fibre for business plans will allow our enterprise customers to have a worry-free experience with the provision of backup data.

The introduction of a new family share plan allows bundling of mobile voice, data, SMS, and home internet into one package, which can be shared with up to five family members, offering discounts of up to 20% compared to individual plans.

Preempting the competition, Safaricom’s actions are seen as a direct response to the recent entry of Starlink into the Kenyan telecommunications landscape.

The company previously opposed the satellite internet provider’s operations, urging the Communications Authority to prevent independent operators like Starlink from establishing services within the country.

As of June 2024, Starlink has gained traction, accumulating over 4,000 active customers, offering competitive speeds of up to 200Mbps for Sh. 6,500 ($50).

They also provide a more budget-friendly package at Sh. 1,300 for 50GB, and an equipment rental option for those who are not ready to purchase the internet kit outright, which is priced at Sh. 45,000.

Safaricom is also committed to enhancing service accessibility by conducting estate clinics, increasing capacity in congested regions, and exploring 4G and 5G home options in areas lacking fibre coverage.

Additionally, businesses will benefit from tailored internet solutions ranging from a 15Mbps shared plan for small enterprises to a robust 100Mbps option for scaling businesses.

With these developments, Safaricom not only aims to provide Kentans with faster internet but is also investing in the future of connectivity within the region, ensuring that both residential and business customers can enjoy high-speed, reliable internet as technology continues to evolve.