Kenya, a hub of innovation and technology in Africa, still struggles with inconsistent and slow internet services. Despite the country’s advancements in digital infrastructure, many Kenyans face daily frustrations with unreliable Wi-Fi connections. In this article, we’ll explore the top 3 worst Wi-Fi providers in Kenya, highlighting the challenges users face and why these services fall short of expectations.
1. Zuku Wi-Fi
(What to Expect: Frequent Downtimes and Customer Dissatisfaction)
Zuku, a popular internet service provider in Kenya, has been under fire for its frequent service disruptions and poor customer support.
Over the years, Zuku users have taken to social media to express their frustrations, with some even launching online petitions demanding refunds for prolonged downtimes.
Key Issues with Zuku Wi-Fi
- Frequent Outages: Users report regular service interruptions, especially in Nairobi, which can last for days.
- Poor Customer Support: Complaints about unresponsive customer service teams have been a recurring theme.
- Lack of Compensation: Despite prolonged downtimes, Zuku has been criticized for not offering adequate refunds or compensation to affected customers.
2. Safaricom Home Fiber
(Expect: High Costs and Inconsistent Speeds)
Safaricom, a leading telecommunications provider in Kenya, offers home fiber internet services. However, its high prices and inconsistent speeds have left many customers dissatisfied.
Key Issues with Safaricom Home Fiber
- High Costs: Safaricom’s Diamond package, which offers speeds of up to 500 Mbps, costs KSh 12,499 per month, making it one of the most expensive options in the market.
- Inconsistent Speeds: Despite the high price, users often experience slower-than-advertised speeds, especially during peak hours.
- Limited Coverage: Safaricom’s fiber services are not widely available in rural areas, leaving many Kenyans without access to reliable internet.
3. Faiba Internet
(Expect: Limited Coverage and Overpriced Plans)
Faiba, another major player in Kenya’s internet market, has been criticized for its limited coverage and overpriced plans. While Faiba offers high-speed internet, its services are often inaccessible to many Kenyans outside major cities.
Key Issues with Faiba Internet
- Limited Coverage: Faiba’s services are primarily concentrated in urban areas like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, leaving rural areas underserved5.
- Overpriced Plans: Faiba’s business packages, which cost up to KSh 55,000 per month, are prohibitively expensive for most small businesses and individuals4.
- Inconsistent Service: Users have reported frequent disruptions and slow speeds, particularly during peak usage times5.
Why Kenya’s Internet Quality Remains a Challenge
The 78th rank is an improvement by one rank from the 79th position that the country was ranked in 2021.
The report which assesses five digital pillars which include internet quality, e-infrastructure, e-security, e-government, and internet affordability was conducted in 117 countries in the world which translates to 92 per cent of the global population. The primary issues include:
- Poor Infrastructure: Limited fiber optic coverage and reliance on outdated technology contribute to slow and unreliable internet services.
- High Costs: Kenyans have to work significantly longer hours compared to countries like Israel to afford internet services, making it less accessible to the average citizen.
- Frequent Outages: Submarine cable cuts and technical faults often lead to widespread internet disruptions, as seen in recent years.
What Can Be Done to Improve Wi-Fi in Kenya?
The top 3 worst Wi-Fi providers in Kenya—Zuku, Safaricom, and Faiba—highlight the need for better infrastructure, affordable pricing, and improved customer service.
As competition from providers like Starlink increases, local ISPs must step up their game to meet the growing demand for reliable and high-speed internet.
For now, Kenyans are left navigating the challenges of slow and unreliable Wi-Fi, hoping for a brighter digital future.
MUST READ: How to Check Faiba MiFi Bundles Balance
If you’re a Faiba user, learn how to manage your data bundles effectively through the Faiba Selfcare portal. This handy tool allows you to check your balance, purchase new bundles, and monitor usage with ease.
By addressing these issues, Kenya can move closer to achieving its goal of becoming a digital powerhouse in Africa. Until then, users must remain vigilant and explore alternative options to ensure they stay connected.
'Want to send us a story? Submit to NAIROBIminiBLOGGERS via our Email nairobiminiblogger@gmail.com'
Drop Your Comments, What do you think About The Article?