Kenya - 3G

Safaricom to unveil 3G service

Safaricom is set to unveil a third generation (3G) high-speed mobile voice and internet service later this month.

The mobile service provider postponed the launch from April 1st because of the ongoing initial sale of its shares to the public.

The 3G High Speed Packet Data (HSPD) network will offer subscribers fast data communications such as mobile Internet access, mobile videoconferencing and videophone.

Safaricom CEO Michael Joseph said the launch of the 3G service follows a series of successful tests in Nairobi.

“We will be launching the network soon and it will be particularly valuable to our corporate clients,” Mr Joseph said after signing a partnership agreement with Postal Corporation of Kenya (PCK).

Subscribers will, however, only access the service from a 3G-enabled handset.

Under the agreement Mr Joseph signed on Wednesday with the Postmaster General, Fred Odhiambo, the Corporation will sell Safaricom airtime of denominations between Sh100 to Sh1,000 through its post offices across the country.

Mr Joseph said the post offices would supplement Safaricom’s current outlets numbering over 100,000.

“The branches will provide a secure, reliable and professionally-run environment for our subscribers to buy airtime even in rural Kenya,” he said.

Mr Odhiambo said the service would initially be available in 38 branches. “This will be followed by a gradual rollout to all our outlets countrywide in the next few months,” he said.

Safaricom is the latest among 20 corporations that have entered into partnerships with PCK’s agency business launched five years ago.

Among the services customers can access at PCK paying water and electricity bills, pay TV subscriptions as well as receiving monthly pension and salaries.