Kenya’s largest telco, Safaricom, is preparing a major overhaul of its data billing system, shifting from the traditional MB/GB-based bundles to a time-based model.
Under the new plan, customers will pay for internet access based on the duration of their online sessions rather than the volume of data consumed.
This means that whether a user streams 2GB in one hour or simply checks emails and WhatsApp, the charges will remain the same—as the clock continues to run once connected.
The model is reminiscent of the early dial-up internet era, where billing was tied to connection time rather than data usage.
Winners and Losers
The biggest beneficiaries of this change will be heavy streamers and downloaders, who can maximize unlimited data within their paid time slots.
However, light and casual users—such as those who occasionally browse, send emails, or check social media—may end up paying more, since charges will apply even during idle usage.
Safaricom’s Rationale
According to industry insiders, Safaricom is introducing the change to ease network congestion and offer better value to high-consumption users. By encouraging shorter and more efficient sessions, the company hopes to optimize its network performance, particularly during peak hours.
Advantages of Time-Based Billing
1. Simplified Billing – Easier for less tech-savvy customers to understand.
2. Cost Efficiency for Heavy Users – Streamers and large file downloaders can save significantly.
3. Reduced Congestion – Shorter, focused sessions will help improve overall service quality.
4. Encourages Efficient Usage – Customers will avoid leaving idle connections running.
5. Global Alignment – Similar systems are used in satellite internet and niche markets.
Safaricom’s Current Bundle Offers
At present, Safaricom customers enjoy:
Daily, hourly, weekly, and monthly bundles starting from as low as KES 5.
Monthly data bundles of 25–40GB priced at KES 3,000.
5G mobile bundles from 15GB–200GB, priced between KES 1,000 and 10,000.
Home Wi-Fi packages ranging from capped 400GB–1.5TB to unlimited speed-based plans (10Mbps–250Mbps), priced at KES 2,999–10,000.
With the shift to time bundles, many of these offerings are expected to be restructured.
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