Equitel Makes History as the First MVNO to Launch 5G Services in Africa
Equitel, a leading Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in Kenya, has ushered in a new era of connectivity by officially launching its 5G network.
This groundbreaking move makes Equitel the first MVNO on the continent to offer the blazing-fast speeds and reduced latency of 5G technology.
The Equitel 5G network leverages a partnership with Airtel to provide coverage in over 370 locations across Kenya. Key areas with network access include:
Major Cities: Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, Eldoret
Towns: Athi River, Kakamega, Siaya, Bungoma, and more
“This launch positions us as a true innovator in the Kenyan telecommunications market. 5G isn’t just about faster speeds—it’s about unlocking new possibilities for businesses, communities, and individuals across the country.”
Benefits of Equitel’s 5G Network:
Lightning-fast speeds: Experience significantly faster download and upload speeds, enabling seamless streaming, gaming, and large file transfers.
Reduced latency: 5G’s minimal network delays improve real-time applications like video calling and online gaming.
Enhanced reliability: 5G offers a more robust connection for a smoother mobile experience.
To enjoy the benefits of Equitel’s 5G network, customers will need a 5G-enabled smartphone and a 4G-LTE SIM card.
Those using older 3G SIM cards can obtain a free upgrade at any Equity Bank branch.
Equitel says it is committed to extending its 5G network further in the coming months, targeting densely populated areas, shopping centers, and business districts.
In Kenya, two main service providers are offering 5G packages: Safaricom and Airtel.
Safaricom offers two types of 5G packages: mobile data bundles and 5G Wi-Fi.
Their mobile data bundles start at Sh1,000 for 15GB of data, valid for 30 days, and go up to Sh10,000 for 200GB of data, valid for 30 days.
Their 5G Wi-Fi packages offer unlimited data with different data caps, starting from 400GB for Sh3,499, valid for 30 days, to 1500GB for Sh9,999, valid for 30 days. You will also need to purchase a 5G Wi-Fi router to use this service, which costs Sh5,499.
Airtel offers 5G Home Broadband packages, which are delivered through a 5G router and provide internet access to your entire home.
They offer three packages with different speeds:
5G Ultra – 10GB daily: Sh2,999, valid for 30 days (total data: 300GB)
5G Ultra – 20GB daily: Sh5,000, valid for 30 days (total data: 600GB)
5G Unlimited 10Mbps: Sh3,500, valid for 30 days
5G Unlimited 30 Mbps: Sh5,500, valid for 30 days
5G Unlimited 50 Mbps: Sh7,500, valid for 30 days.
It’s worth noting that Equitel has not yet released their prices for their 5G offering.
