Chargeable WiFi Zones Spotted in Nairobi

Safaricom is allegedly testing wireless internet access points in Nairobi, Kenya. According to a report by TechWeez, the mobile network provider could be using these designated WiFi zones to increase their consumer base.

“The operator is yet to clarify the operational model of the new Wi-Fi zones. All we can gather is that the routers are placed in key spots such as the KENCOM bus stop. The zone looks fairly new, so it is likely that other areas of interest will follow.”

These access points provide access to browsing and online content for as little as KES 10 – which is still relatively cheap in comparison to regular data prices.

“In June 2019, Telkom Kenya launched the same initiative with the Nairobi County Government and Meelin Media Limited. All parties promised to offer secure access to internet services to cut the connectivity gap. Telkom’s product is also free and is supported by a large screen that displays sponsored content.”

“We are certain Safaricom, with its huge budget, will publicize the solution as soon as possible.”

The WiFi zones are not the only way Safaricom is looking to expand as “the carrier, which has gone a long way to roll out 4G in many parts of the country has also been selling fibre connectivity to households and businesses. At the moment, Safaricom’s FTTH product is the most used in the country, having cruised past the competition in Q3 2019”.