The company has been awarded a 3G spectrum license by the Communications Commission of Kenya, paving the way for the roll out of high speed internet services early next year. This follows the completion of successful 3G tests carried out countrywide by the company over the past one year.
The roll out of the 3G network is part of the company’s strategic plan aimed at increasing the operators’ competitiveness, in the data market.
This move comes at a time when the demand for data is on the increase globally, and Orange Kenya Chief Executive Officer Mickael Ghossein says they are committed to meeting the needs of the market.
He said, “These initiatives are informed by consistent research into the market needs and preferences and these are leveraged on technological advancements that characterize the ever dynamic telecommunications sector, across the globe”.
Ghossein reiterated that Orange would continue to offer reliable internet services at a competitive price, to ensure that they boost their day to day productivity.
To maintain its steady data market share growth, Orange intends to invest over 30 million euros to roll out a superior 3G network in the country.
“With the upward increase on data consumption; provision of innovative services via high speed broadband is the next frontier for competition in the communication sector. The network gives rise to higher internet speeds while at the same time provides a platform for value addition services such as mobile TV, video on demand and video conferencing.
Statistics from the Communications Commission of Kenya indicate the number of internet subscribers had risen from an estimated 400,000 users in June 2008 to more than 3.1 million in June this year-
Speaking at the licence award ceremony, Communications Commission of Kenya Director General Charles Njoroge urged Orange and all licensed service providers to diversify areas of competition and introduce new services that would cater for the needs of their customers.
BRIAN ADERO in Nairobi, Kenya
