An global association of mobile operators has lauded the government for coming up with a clear schedule for the anticipated digital switchover by March, 2015.
The switchover, GSM Association said would free up “precious 700MHz and 800MHz” spectrum bands commonly known as Digital Dividend.
“This lower frequency spectrum delivers excellent geographic coverage and will be a key enabler for the provision of universal mobile broadband access,” said Tom Phillips, Chief Regulatory Officer, GSMA.
Mr Phillips said the March 30 deadline for countrywide migration demonstrated Kenya’s clear and welcome commitment to meeting the International Telecommunication Union’s global digital migration deadline of June 17, 2015.
“Unique mobile subscriber penetration in Kenya is currently 40%, which means that more than half of the country is still unconnected. The availability of Digital Dividend spectrum for mobile will make life-changing mobile services available to all Kenyans, including the three-quarters of the population who live in rural areas, as well as provide substantial economic benefits and new opportunities for digital entrepreneurship,” he added.
Tanzania, almost completing its digital switchover is leading the digital migration in East Africa.
