We wrote to you that Safaricom Limited expanded their 4G coverage to 5 more towns in Kenya. This brings the total number of towns covered by 4G network to 7 namely Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, Kisii and Meru. Through this move the number of counties with high-speed internet will rise to 30. Don’t forget that by the end of 2016 Safaricom intends to have rolled out 500 more 4G base stations.
One of the requirements to connect to the 4G network is that you have to possess a 4G capable sim-card. If you have recently had your sim-card replaced for one reason or the other then most probably you were issued a 4G enabled sim-card. It is not guaranteed that it is 4G capable so you will have to carry out a test to determine if indeed it is capable of connecting to 4G network. If you acquired your sim-card a while back then it is almost automatic the fastest internet connection it can connect to is 3G.
Just to be certain that your sim-card is 4G enabled carry out the following simple steps. Safaricom will respond promptly through the USSD service with the appropriate feedback.
How to check if your Safaricom sim-card is 4G enabled
- Dial the USSD code *544# from your current Safaricom sim-card.
- Choose option 0, Safaricom 4G bundles & Sim Check.
- Then choose option 5, Is my SIM 4G enabled?
- If it is not 4G enabled you will receive the following feedback;
“Dear customer, your SIM card is not 4G enabled. Visit the nearest Safaricom Retail store to replace your Sim card today. Join the 4G movement.”
Note that upgrading to a 4G sim-card is free though there are reports that it might set you back Ksh.50. For those looking to replace their lost or misplaced lines you will have to part with Ksh.100.