Airtel Africa has confirmed that its Kenyan subsidiary bought 100MHz of spectrum in the 3,500MHz band, Pulse Live Kenya reported. The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) approved the purchase. The deal cost $65 million, about KSh 8.4 billion. It gives Airtel the right to use the frequencies for 25 years, subject to the regulator's conditions.
This is not a new 5G launch. Airtel Kenya launched 5G commercially on July 6, 2023. The new spectrum adds capacity to that network and leaves room for growth. The 3.5GHz band, known as the C-band, is widely used for commercial 5G. The GSMA lists it as one of the main ranges for early 5G networks worldwide.
Airtel has also announced a separate 25-year renewal of its general operating licence in Kenya. Pulse Live Kenya notes that this licence is different from the 25-year rights tied to the new spectrum.
Demand for 5G is growing fast, but from a small base. CA data shows Kenya had 2,103,217 mobile-data subscriptions on 5G by June 2026. That is up from 1,247,713 a year earlier, a rise of about 68.6%. Total mobile-data subscriptions stood at 64.26 million, so 4G remains the dominant technology. Safaricom held 64.4% of mobile broadband subscriptions as of June 2026.
For customers, more spectrum could mean faster downloads, smoother video streaming and better video calls, especially in busy areas. It may also support 5G home and business internet delivered over the wireless network.
Buying spectrum alone does not widen coverage. Airtel still has to invest in base stations, antennas, transmission links and power systems. The 3.5GHz band needs more closely spaced sites than lower bands, which travel further and pass through buildings better. Coverage will depend on where Airtel deploys the frequencies.
Users need a 5G-compatible phone or router, an Airtel line and a location with 5G infrastructure. A 4G-only handset cannot connect to 5G. Airtel's own guidance says 5G is available only in selected locations. Buyers should therefore check its coverage information before purchasing a 5G device.