Kenya Joins Global Initiative to Phase Out 2G/3G by 2030
Kenya is among 11 African countries targeted to phase out 2G and 3G mobile connections by 2030.
In Brief
- •Kenya is among 11 African countries targeted to phase out 2G and 3G mobile connections by 2030.
- •The initiative is part of the GSM Association's roadmap to accelerate migration to 4G/5G broadband in Africa.
- •2G subscriptions in Kenya declined by 27.3% from 12.8 million to 9.3 million between 2025 and 2026.
- •3G subscriptions fell by 39.2% year-on-year, from 7.4 million to 4.5 million during the same period.
- •The roadmap aims to connect one billion people in Africa by 2030, addressing an estimated 906 million people without internet access.
Why It Matters
The phase-out of 2G and 3G networks in Kenya and other African countries is a significant step towards modernizing the continent's digital infrastructure. This transition will enhance internet speeds, improve connectivity, and support economic growth. By connecting more people to the internet, Kenya and other participating countries can bridge the digital divide, foster innovation, and improve access to essential services. The initiative also highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in driving digital transformation.
Key Details
- Target Year
- 2030
- 2G Subscriptions (2025)
- 12.8 million
- 2G Subscriptions (2026)
- 9.3 million
- 3G Subscriptions (2025)
- 7.4 million
- 3G Subscriptions (2026)
- 4.5 million
- 4G Subscriptions (2025)
- 37.2 million
- 4G Subscriptions (2026)
- 48.3 million
- 5G Subscriptions (2025)
- 1.2 million
- 5G Subscriptions (2026)
- 2.1 million
- Internet Usage Gap
- 906 million people
Context & Background
The initiative is part of the GSM Association's efforts to accelerate the migration to superior broadband in Africa, building on the network foundation already established in the continent.
Original Reporting & Sources
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