Transformative Role of 5G in Enhancing Smart Living and Technology

Definition of 5G Technology

This is the fifth technology of the cellular technology. However, the purpose of this technology is to increase speed, improve wireless flexibility services, and minimize latency. Lower latency boosts business application performance and digital experience. The theoretical speed is 20 Gbps unlike that of 4G whose peak speed is 1Gbps. 4G only focuses on connectivity while 5G ensures the next level of connectivity which facilitates a smooth experience from the cloud to a client; therefore, maximumly exploiting cloud technology. The technology of 5G is also characterized by dense, distributed access architecture which supports data process to edger and increase the processing speed to the users.

Availability of 5G Network

5G network coverage is available in numerous countries. The early generation of 5G network is known as 5G non-standalone since it is built on already available 4G LTE infrastructure. This is 5G radio technology and is faster than 4G LTE. Since 2020, 5G technology has been available and commonly spread to many regions by 2022.

Safaricom and 5G Network Coverage in Kenya 

The latest and largest network in mobile technology currently is 5G. Safaricom has expanded 5G coverage to more than 14% (1,114) of the Kenyan population while targeting to achieve 52% (1,700) by mid of 2025. So far 1,114 sites have been deployed across all main regions of the country. Compared to other network providers, Safaricom is far from them. For example, Airtel aims to set 1,000 sites of 5G by the end of December 2024 and Telkom Kenya and Jamii Telecommunication are yet to launch the network.

According to the latest Communication Authority of Kenya statistics; March 2024, reports that 653,716 mobile data users of 51 million have been enjoying a better life with a 5G network. However, not only available in mobile broadband but also Safaricom have implemented Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) for businesses and home operations in its 5G wireless internet. Communication Authority of Kenya reports indicates 331,406 subscribers can access fixed wireless out of 1.4 million. These statistics show that the future is smart with 5G network coverage.

The following is the list of counties/areas where 5G is readily available; Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kiambu, Machakos, Kilifi, Kwale, Nakuru, Kajiado, Laikipia, Uasin Gishu, Garissa, Kakamega, Kericho, Kisii, Meru, Marsabit, Nyeri, Siaya, Vihiga, Narok, Turkana, and Transzoia. Within these counties most areas are covered.