07 February 2025

According to Kenya’s Communications Authority (CA), smartphone penetration is increasing, which is encouraging the adoption of 4G and 5G technologies.

The CA’s First Quarter Sector Statistics Report for the financial year 2024/2025, shows there was a slight decline in 3G broadband subscriptions and data consumption, but an increase in 4G and 5G technology adoptions from July to September 2024.

“The adoption of 4G and 5G technologies has continued to grow, mainly driven by the growing demand for high-speed Internet for activities such as streaming, online learning, remote work, and e-commerce,” said the CA.

The authority reports that the telecoms sector witnessed substantial growth in the first quarter of the financial year 2024/2025, with an increase in internet subscriptions, mobile SIM, smartphone use, and mobile money.

The total number of mobile phone devices connected to mobile networks was 68.1 million, with a penetration rate of 131.5%. Smartphones take the lead with 37.4 million devices, representing a 72.6% penetration rate, while 30.7 million feature phones accounted for 59.6% penetration.