In a monumental stride towards technological advancement, Hormuud Telecom, a prominent telecommunications entity in Somalia, has unveiled the deployment of 5G connectivity in eight key locations across the nation.
Reports indicate that Hormuud’s 5G network now blankets vital cities including Mogadishu, Kismayo, Galkayo, Baidoa, Dhusamareeb, Beledwayne, Afgoye, Merca, and Dhobley, boasting an impressive coverage rate of up to 81%. This move signifies a pivotal moment in Somalia’s telecommunications landscape, promising enhanced connectivity and faster data speeds to its populace.
Commencing March 21, 2024, Hormuud Telecom is set to initiate a groundbreaking initiative, offering complimentary upgrades to its existing 4G customer base. Moreover, subscribers will have access to an unlimited data plan priced at a mere $20 monthly, further democratizing access to high-speed internet services.
Hormuud Telecom’s footprint in Somalia’s telecommunications sector is already formidable, with its 4G network encompassing approximately 70% of the nation’s population, achieving an impressive 88% coverage in urban centers and 70% in rural areas. Notably, the average data usage among Hormuud customers has surged to 5GB per month, representing a significant increase from previous years.
Technically speaking, the newly introduced 5G infrastructure promises unparalleled speeds, ranging from 10Gbps to 400Gbps per single wavelength, with an overarching capacity reaching up to 38Tbps. Such advancements are poised to revolutionize internet connectivity and pave the way for transformative digital experiences.
In response to this momentous development, Somalia’s Minister of Telecommunication, Jama Hassan Khalif, hailed Hormuud Telecom’s initiative as a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to progress and innovation.
Ahmed Yusuf, CEO of Hormuud Telecom, emphasized the far-reaching benefits of 5G technology, emphasizing its potential to catalyze faster internet speeds and bolster service delivery across various sectors. Yusuf underscored the inclusivity of these advancements, affirming that the benefits of advanced technology are accessible to all, contributing to societal empowerment and digital transformation.
While Hormuud Telecom leads the charge in Somalia’s 5G revolution, it is noteworthy that Somtel, another regional telecommunications giant, had earlier announced the inauguration of its 5G network in January 2024.
The groundwork for Somalia’s digital transformation was laid in September 2023 when the nation’s National Communications Authority (NCA) initiated a consultative process for the formulation of a comprehensive National 5G strategy, inclusive of a roadmap for spectrum allocation.
Beyond Somalia’s borders, the African continent witnesses a burgeoning digital evolution, with countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, and several others embracing the advent of 5G connectivity. Notably, partnerships between Mobile Telecommunications Company and Huawei have facilitated 5G trials in Namibia, underscoring Africa’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies.
As Somalia strides confidently into the era of 5G connectivity, Hormuud Telecom’s pioneering efforts stand as a beacon of progress, heralding a new chapter in the nation’s technological narrative.