200 new 4G sites Goes Live in Nairobi, Courtesy of Telkom Kenya

Telkom has announced the going live of 200 new 4G sites in Nairobi and its environs to cater for the growing demand on data.

“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,” says Telkom’s Chief Technology and Information Officer, Mr. John Barorot.

The new sites bring Telkom’s total number of 4G sites in Nairobi to 300, a move expected to enhance the firm’s 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,” Mr. Barorot adds.

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. 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,” says Mr. Barorot.

Telkom has invested more than KSh8 Billion in network expansion and infrastructure rollout in the past two years; in addition to strategic investment in three undersea cables connecting Kenya to Africa and the world; and more than 7,300 kilometers of fiber countrywide.

Whereas the 4G network only supports data, for now, 3G supports voice and data while the 2G network is largely a voice network with limited GPRS/EDGE data network.

Apart from offering better customer mobile broadband experience and creating revenue opportunities, 4G networks offer better and simpler network operations since major network elements already in place can be leveraged particularly with the ongoing evolution of telcos to adopt a full IP network.