[Kenya] Rural ISP Mawingu begins expansion to 25 additional counties

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mawingu, the Rural Internet Service Provider (ISP), has begun its network expansion to 25 additional counties across Kenya.

This expansion comes about three months after the company raised $9 million Series B funding to scale its operations across the country.

Already operational in 15 counties and with more than 7,500 active customers, Mawingu says it has in the past 4 months connected towns which have not been well served and generally neglected by the larger players in the industry. The towns are scattered across different countries and include  Kilifi, Kwale, Uasin Gishu, Bungoma, Kakamega, Kisii, and Migori. The Internet service provider has now cumulatively connected 22 counties to its network, serving over 9,500 homes and businesses making it the largest ISP catering to rural Kenya.

“Providing connectivity access to these areas which other providers do not give primary priority due to the high capital cost and logistical complexities involved in ensuring a stable, reliable and affordable service is in line with our long-term vision of offering meaningful Internet connectivity, at very competitive price points comparative to other service providers, by building sustainable, flexible infrastructure in underserved regions.” Mawingu’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Farouk Ramji says.

Mawingu offers its customers getting to access unlimited meaningful Internet for only KSh 2,500
monthly. This is quite low compared to what traditional 4G networks in the country charge.  These customers according to Mr. Ramji adds consume an average 8GB of data daily, which could easily translate to anything between KSh 20,000 to KSh 30,000 monthly for a 240GB data bundle on a conventional 4G network. However, Mawingu customers get to access unlimited meaningful Internet for only KSh 2,500 monthly.” 

The ISP has also increased its minimum speeds across its Internet packages for homes and small businesses, as well as dedicated connections and services for large enterprises. In addition, it is testing fiber in some existing markets, as it seeks to further improve Internet quality in the coming months. Mawingu combines wireless and fiber technology, as well as solar power, to distribute low-cost, affordable, and reliable Internet to its customers.

“Mawingu’s aim is not to simply drop an Internet cable at someone’s house. We seek to help our customers access new opportunities for work, education, entertainment, and social connections through the power of the Internet. Our company’s mission is driven by this very purpose: Open Opportunities.” Mr. Ramji said. 

In the last quarter of 2022, Mawingu rebranded, introducing a new logo, a fresh set of company values, and its renewed mission, all reflective of its long-term vision to open opportunities to customers across the region. It is now positioning itself as a provider of quality Internet at affordable rates, with the capacity and desire to connect frontier regions that have never had access to meaningful Internet. 

mawingu.co