Safaricom PLC (NSE: SCOM), Kenya’s leading telecommunications provider, has unveiled its revamped 5G for Business solutions, offering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) faster and more reliable connectivity. The initiative aims to meet the growing digital needs of SMEs, enabling seamless online transactions, real-time collaboration, and efficient remote operations.
The announcement was made during the ‘Grow with Safaricom Business’ Western Kenya edition, part of the broader Sambaza Furaha na Safaricom Caravan. This platform is designed to empower SMEs with the knowledge and tools to leverage technology for scaling their businesses.
Upgraded 5G Internet Speeds and Affordable Pricing
The revamped 5G for Business service delivers internet speeds five times faster than previous offerings, ensuring SMEs can access enterprise-grade connectivity without exceeding their budgets.
Here’s a breakdown of the new speeds and pricing structure:
| Old Speed | New Speed | Monthly Price (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Mbps | 50 Mbps | 4,000 |
| 20 Mbps | 100 Mbps | 5,000 |
| 50 Mbps | 250 Mbps | 10,000 |
In addition to improved speeds, Safaricom is offering an exclusive discount from 29th November to 31st December 2024. Businesses signing up during this period will receive 25% off all 5G plans, making it an opportune moment for SMEs to adopt high-speed internet solutions.
Kenya’s SMEs are a critical pillar of the economy, with over 7.4 million micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) employing approximately 14.9 million Kenyans and contributing 30% to the GDP, according to the Kenya Institute of Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA).
Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom PLC, emphasized the transformative potential of the new service:
“The new 5G for Business will ensure that SMEs can access enterprise-grade internet performance without stretching their budgets. This will empower them to enhance productivity, improve customer interactions, and scale operations efficiently in today’s increasingly connected marketplace.”
The improved connectivity addresses critical SME challenges such as:
- Real-time Collaboration: Enabling seamless communication across teams, whether in the office or remote.
- Enhanced Online Transactions: Supporting faster and more secure e-commerce activities.
- Optimized Digital Operations: Facilitating cloud-based solutions and other digital tools that drive efficiency.
The Grow with Safaricom Business initiative, under which the 5G service was launched, is a strategic effort to support SMEs in leveraging technology for growth. The Western Kenya edition of the initiative featured workshops and panel discussions tailored to address the unique challenges faced by SMEs in the region.
Through partnerships with SMEs, Safaricom aims to deliver:
- Digital Transformation Training: Equipping businesses with skills to use technology effectively.
- Affordable Connectivity Solutions: Ensuring SMEs of all sizes can access the internet services they need.
- Tailored Business Tools: Providing digital tools to streamline operations, enhance customer experience, and foster growth.
1. Unmatched Speed and Reliability
The new 5G service offers speeds up to 250 Mbps, enabling businesses to perform high-bandwidth tasks such as video conferencing, data transfers, and cloud computing with ease.
2. Cost-Effective Plans
With monthly prices starting at KES 4,000, the service is designed to accommodate the budgets of SMEs, ensuring that even small businesses can benefit from high-speed connectivity.
3. Boosting Productivity
Faster internet reduces downtime and enhances the efficiency of digital tools, enabling SMEs to serve customers better and scale operations more effectively.
4. Positioning SMEs for Future Growth
In an increasingly digital economy, robust internet infrastructure is critical for competitiveness. Safaricom’s 5G for Business positions Kenyan SMEs to thrive in both local and global markets.
Kenya is widely recognized as a leader in digital innovation in Africa, with a vibrant SME sector that continues to adopt technology at a rapid pace. Initiatives like Safaricom’s revamped 5G for Business align with national efforts to promote digital inclusion and economic growth.
Key Factors Driving Digital Adoption Among Kenyan SMEs:
- E-commerce Growth: With online shopping on the rise, SMEs need reliable internet to manage digital storefronts and payment systems.
- Remote Work Adoption: As businesses embrace hybrid work models, high-speed connectivity is essential for effective collaboration.
- Cloud Technology: SMEs are increasingly leveraging cloud-based tools for data storage, project management, and customer engagement.
Safaricom continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting Kenyan SMEs through innovative solutions and partnerships. By enhancing internet speeds and offering affordable plans, the company is addressing one of the most pressing needs of businesses in today’s digital economy.
The Sambaza Furaha na Safaricom Caravan further underscores this commitment, providing a platform for SMEs to learn, network, and grow.
With its revamped 5G for Business offering, Safaricom is empowering Kenyan SMEs to thrive in an interconnected world. Faster speeds, cost-effective pricing, and tailored support make this service a crucial enabler for businesses looking to scale their operations and remain competitive in an increasingly digital marketplace.
