Jamii Telecommunications Limited (JTL) has finally launched its Faiba 4G network as we predicted in August, ending months of tests and uncertainty on when the network would launch.
The launch makes JTL the fourth mobile operator after Safaricom, Airtel and Telkom and causing jitters in the market. Most analysts were kept in the dark on when the network would launch as it was also clear that JTL was also struggling with getting phones which could clearly use on its network.
JTL’s foray into the mobile connectivity happened after they were controversially awarded the 700 MHz frequency amidst complaints from other operators, especially Safaricom.
The JTL Faiba 4G Mobile network will be data based with voice calls being free as long as subscribers have active data bundles. The firm will also offer SMS and data bundles will be cheapest in the market.
The network will also allow concurrent use of data and voice at the same time.
The network operates on Band 28 of the 700 MHz which is the same as that used by Glo Mobile in Nigeria. It will start offering subscriptions using 0747 number prefix.
READ: Jamii Telecoms is Testing its Faiba 4G Network, Tries to Poach Safaricom Executives
Jamii Telecoms is expected to launch its mobile money offerings through the Faiba Money and later Faiba Pay which will be used to dilute Safaricom’s domination of the network.
Prepaid tariff
Data Bundles
Mobile Plans
Fisi Hour
The network is already available in Mombasa, Kisumu, Thika, Eldoret, Nakuru and Nairobi with 300 base stations covered and Jamii promising to cover at least 1,000 base stations in 3 years.
READ: Jamii Telecom Doubles Internet Speeds without Increasing Cost of Subscription
The SIM cards and phones will be available at the PhoneExpress shops in the country.
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