KENYA’S active mobile phone subscriptions grew by 1.6 percent to hit 70 million as of September 2024, up from 68.9 million in June 2024. This milestone was revealed in the latest quarterly report from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), which highlighted significant growth in the nation’s telecommunications sector.
The report noted that Kenya’s mobile phone penetration rate now stands at an impressive 135.8 percent, underscoring the widespread adoption of mobile technology across the country. The CA attributed the growth to the sector’s ability to adapt to consumer needs and increased investments in infrastructure.
Mobile money and data usage on the rise
Mobile money subscriptions also surged, reaching 40.6 million users by September 2024. This reflects the increasing reliance on digital financial solutions in Kenya’s rapidly evolving economy.
Meanwhile, mobile data subscriptions hit a record 53.7 million, with 4G networks accounting for 58.1 percent of total subscriptions. The report pointed to a notable decline in 3G usage as more users transitioned to faster networks, including the adoption of 5G technologies.
‘Consumers are increasingly demanding high-speed connectivity for activities such as streaming, online education, remote work, and e-commerce,’ the CA stated. This shift has been a key driver in the rapid uptake of advanced network technologies.
Telecom growth propelled by innovation
The report highlighted sustained investments in telecommunications infrastructure as a crucial factor in Kenya’s telecom growth. The expansion of 4G and 5G networks has provided millions with faster and more reliable internet, catering to the needs of an increasingly digital-savvy population.
With mobile subscriptions continuing to rise and high-speed networks gaining traction, Kenya’s telecommunications sector is poised for even greater advancements. The growing adoption of digital technologies underscores the country’s potential to become a leader in Africa’s digital transformation.
